IT all gets real again this weekend for Northwich Victoria and Barnton.

The new North West Counties Football League campaign kicks off on Saturday, with both sides scheduled at home.

Vics host Avro at the U Lock It Stadium in Wincham, while The Villagers entertain Stockport Town at Townfield, with both games slated for 3pm kick-offs.

The Trickies are bouncing into action with the momentum of a stack of new signings confirmed over the past week.

Midfielders Tom Walker, Isaac Graham and Harvey Whyte along with defender Ryan Jackson are on board for the 2022/23 season.

Manager Steve Wilkes has brought in Walker from his former club Padiham.

"He’s a player I’ve watched for a few years now and I think he’s just what we’ve been missing in the middle of the park. I know the fans will love his tenacity," said Wilkes.

Graham, a hard working midfielder with an eye for a pass, spent time at 1874 Northwich last season, having also been at Altrincham, Curzon Ashton and Trafford previously.

“Isaac was sought after by a few clubs and he’s another great addition to the team," said Wilkes.

"I’m really looking forward to working with him, and he’s a brilliant lad in the dressing room.”

Whyte is no stranger to the green and white colours, having been a member of the Vics squad that enjoyed a fine run in the FA Vase squad three seasons ago – before joining Rylands initially and then spending last season at Wythenshawe Town.

Jackson, meanwhile, is a local lad who was last with Winsford Utd but has also played for Witton Albion and 1874 Northwich.

Wilkes said: "It's always nice for the fans to see a local lad and that's what Jacko is.

"Ryan can play in a number of positions and is one of the fittest lads I've seen at our level. Another brilliant addition to the dressing room."

Vics have also confirmed over the past few days that they have signed another local boy and front-man Jan McPherson as well as retaining the services of midfield maestro Ryan Winder and leading marksman Matty Birchall.

McPherson scored the second goal in Vics' 2-0 home win against Stockport County in their final friendly in midweek.

Fans should note an early change to Vics' fixtures, with Tuesday's trip to Wythenshawe Town having been postponed and moved to Saturday, October 15.

Barnton have also announced a new signing this week as they head into the First Division South campaign.

Former Vauxhall Motors forward Harvey Sample has been recruited.

Barnton completed their pre-season with a 0-0 draw at home to Altrincham Reserves on Saturday.

1874 Northwich continued their preparations for the new season in the Northern Premier League with a 6-0 home win against Market Drayton Town on Tuesday, with Jack Irlam scoring a hat-trick.

They fell 1-0 at home to Salford City on Thursday night and return to action at Airbus Broughton tomorrow, Saturday.

Witton Albion's friendly at Bala Town tomorrow is off but they host Atherton Collieries on Tuesday, kick-off 7.45pm.