1874 NORTHWICH have announced they will play a home game at Witton Albion’s ground for the first time next week.

Their FA Vase encounter with Pontefract Collieries, scheduled for Sunday, January 7, has been switched to Wincham Park after an deal was agreed between the two clubs.

Talks have taken place over the past fortnight.

“We’re delighted to be able to help out 1874 by staging this match,” said Witton chairman Mark Harris.

“It should be a great cup tie, and it also helps reduce the impact of two teams playing regularly at Winsford.

“At the same time, our club can benefit from additional rental and bar income.”

1874 have played only once since December 5, and five of six fixtures on the calendar since then have been postponed.

A busy schedule must fit in at least 35 more matches.

“We’re really pleased to have been able to set up what is a mutually-beneficial arrangement with Witton,” said Paul Stockton, chairman at 1874 Northwich.

“We’d like to thank Mark and his board for the professional and business-like matter in which they’ve approached reaching an agreement.”

The terms of an agreement between the clubs allow 1874 to host opponents in Northwich again before the end of the campaign.

Harris added: “We believe the arrangement will benefit both clubs in the short-term, and can also lay a foundation for future co-operation.

“Both clubs know that ground-shares work.”

1874 Northwich’s fourth-round meeting with the Northern Counties East League title-hopefuls kicks off at 3pm.