A MAYORAL reception was held at Trafford Town Hall on Thursday to congratulate Altrincham Football Club on their successful promotion to the Conference Premier League.

This promotion means that they will now play football at a national level, visiting and welcoming fans from places such as Bristol, Dartford, Dover and Gateshead.

Altrincham FC has been at the centre of life in Altrincham town since 1910. The team plays an important role in the life of the community, they are sponsored by local business and they engage with the local community and have a thriving women's team and strong junior teams.

Leader of Trafford Council, Cllr Sean Anstee said: “Congratulations to Altrincham FC on their success, it is a fantastic achievement for the club and the town and strengthens Trafford’s strong history with football. Altrincham’s huge regeneration works, including the new market development, the improved transport interchange and the fantastic new leisure facilities will also offer improved and more welcoming facilities for visitors on match days.”

Chairman of Altrincham FC, Grahame Rowley, said “It was fantastic that Trafford Council recognised the superb achievements of Altrincham Football Club last season in attaining Conference Premier status.

"The reception was enjoyed by everyone who attended and gave us a chance to strengthen our links with the many councillors who work so hard for the local residents.”