Early in the season we were told that Brackley would be one of the teams to watch this season because they were investing heavily. The ground, St James’ Park, has a famous name but is smart rather than spectacular, with a 300 seat stand and cover for a further 150. At this stage in the club’s development a large capacity is not required as the record attendance is only 720 versus Kettering in 1989 and last year in the Hellenic League crowds were often under 100.

Despite fits and starts the club has progressed since it moved to its current ground in 1974 whilst entering the North Bucks League. A small clubhouse and changing rooms took them to the Hellenic League within three years and floodlights were erected in 1988/89.

In 1996/97 the club won promotion and was brought in line with Southern League criteria, but a switch from the Midland to the Southern sections resulted in financial meltdown, with debts of over £100,000, and a return to the Hellenic League.

The promotion from the Hellenic League last season has acted as another spur to off-field developments, and a clubhouse extension, new changing facilities, a stand behind one goal, and a vast amount of work on pitch improvements are reported as either in the pipeline or already undertaken.

Similar to the set-up at Thame United, the club also boasts the Park Room, which can seat 120 or accommodate 200 for a buffet, the smaller Clifford Room and a marquee is available providing seating for 200 – no doubt a valuable source of income. These social facilities advertise their next attraction as the “not to be missed 70s glam rock tribute band Koo Koo Cha on 6^th November, so if you are not heading to Hemel Hempstead for our next trophy tie……………………..

Take A43 from Northampton or Oxford, or A422 from Banbury to large roundabout south of town. Take exit marked Brackley and follow towards the town (Tesco store on left). Pass the Locomotive public house and take first turning right, signposted Football Club, into Churchill Way - road leads into Club car park.