Heysham Atoms all set for first Premier Division season

Heysham Atoms' coach Andy Helme discusses tactics with the team before their North West Men's League Division One Grand Final against Bold Miners. Picture: Rob Shaw

Heysham Atoms are gearing up for a major moment in the club’s near 30-year history on Saturday.

The Trimpell outfit take on Haresfinch from St Helens in their first ever Premier Division game at Carnforth High School.

After winning promotion last year secretary Dave Crow, who has been with the club since its inception, says the club can’t wait to get going in the top tier.

He said: “It’s a big milestone in club history.

“Twenty-eight years ago we started out in Division Nine and we’ve been around a bit.

“We’ve moved down due to restructures but never been relegated.

“Now we’ve got to the Premier Division at last and it’s great.

“We used to look up and say how good the players were in the top division but now that’s us.

“We’re really looking forward to it.”

Crow wants the club to consolidate in the top flight, likening their plight to when football clubs reach the Premier League for the first time.

He said: “I would like to see us in mid-table, winning as many as we lose.

“It’s about establishing ourselves. We need to get a season or two under our belt first.

“If we can keep our heads then we can go for it next season.”

Getting a good start will be key with the Atoms going into the Haresfinch game on the back of an impressive league cup display at Chorley Panthers.

Crow said: “Pre-season has been a bit hit and miss but everything came together on Saturday.

“We’re looking for a win this Saturday to get a good start.”

The North West Men’s League game against Haresfinch kicks-off at 2.30pm.  The club are playing at Carnforth High School as they share the Trimpell ground with North Lancashire Football League side Trimpell and Bare Rangers.

All supporters new and old are welcome.