Fylde aiming for the next big step

SUPPORTERS driving to AFC Fylde will have to access the club through a pub car park tomorrow, but the ambitions of the former small-time outfit of Kirkham and Wesham are far loftier than the local alehouse league.

Driven by not only the cash but also the large wad of determination owned by multi-millionaire chairman Dave Haythornwaite - who was knocked back twice when trying to take over Blackpool from the Oystons - the re-branded non-league club are on the verge of a move to Mill Farm as they bid to reach the Vanarama National League.

A brand new complex, featuring an Aldi supermarket, a petrol station, hotel and sports bar, the £18million development containing a 6,000-capacity stadium will open next month.

With such ambition on show, it isn't difficult to imagine a day when AFC Fylde will be up against Blackpool, or the similarly upwardly mobile Fleetwood, in the Football League.

Haythornwaite has the stated goal of gaining league status by 2022.

Under manager Dave Challinor ­- he of mid-90s long throw fame while at Tranmere ­­- the 'Coasters' came close to promotion to non-league's top tier last season.

A 2-1 defeat to North Ferriby in the play-off final did for their hopes, but they hope to make the next step up in 2016-17.

The club's current ground is Kellamergh Park, with the post code PR4 1TN.