CALDICOT Town's preparations for a return to Division One of the Welsh League following a five-season gap, will start on Friday with a home clash with Newport County (7pm), writes Terry Daley.

However, manager Mark Williams will miss the friendly because of a family holiday with team matters resting in the hands of assistants John Burrows and Julian Williams.

The pair will have a full-strength group to choose from including striker Tony Wallis, who struck 13 goals in last season's Division Two title triumph.

“We are delighted we have been able to retain the players,” remarked Mark Williams.

“The game against County will, I am sure, prove to be a very good test for our lads and ideal preparation for the season ahead.

“We will work on keeping our shape against quality opposition and I hope a decent-sized crowd turns up at Jubilee Way.”

Caldicot won their final nine games of last season to lift the second-tier title ahead of county rivals Cwmbran Celtic and Undy Athletic and will play top-flight football for the first time since being relegated at the end of the 2010-2011 campaign.

They finished subsequent seasons placed ninth, 10th, sixth and fourth before topping the 16-strong table - just a point in front of Celtic and two ahead of fierce and closest rivals Undy.

The 2016-2017 will see six local clubs compete in Division One for the first time in the league's 112-year-old history with Goytre, who Caldicot host in the first game of the season on Saturday, August 13, Monmouth Town and Risca United making up the sextet.

Caldicot Town other pre-season friendlies (all at home). Tuesday, July 19 - v Roman Glass FC (Bristol) (7pm); Saturday, July 23 - v Pontypridd Town (2.30pm); Saturday, July 30 - v Hallen FC (Bristol) (2.30pm); Saturday, August 8 - home v Llantwit Major (2.30pm).