ALTON Football Club have started pre-season training under their new manager, Mark Corbett.

The former Alton, Farnham, Walton & Hersham and Camberley striker was appointed during last season, on the understanding that he would start the job in the close-season

Former boss Clive Ventham took over as caretaker after the departure of Michael Charles and steered the Brewers to a respectable 12th place in the Sydenhams League (Wessex) Division One, this being the club’s first full season using the new 3G pitch at the Anstey Park Enclosure.

Mark Corbett, whose ball skills were seen to good effect as an England beach football international, will be assisted by Craig Pearce. Alton Reserves also have a new manager, with Charlie Carver joining the club after four years managing Fernhurst.

Alton’s first team begin their pre-season programme with a home friendly against Basingstoke Town on Tuesday, July 4, ending with a trip to Eversley & California on Saturday, July 29, ready for the start of the league season the following week.

The Reserves entertain Abingdon Town on Saturday, July 8 (ko 12.30pm) and East Cowes Vics on Saturday, July 29 (3pm). The team will again compete in the Wyvern Combination East Division.

Anyone interested in joining Alton FC as a player, helper or sponsor should email contact@ altonfc.com for more details.

Alton’s pre-season fixtures:

Tues, July 4 – Basingstoke Town home (7.45pm)

Sat, July 8 – Abingdon Town home (3pm)

Tues, July 11 – Thatcham Town home (7.45pm)

Sat, July 15 – Camberley Town home (1pm)

Tues, July 18 – Ash United home (7.45pm)

Sat, July 29 – Eversley & California away (1pm)