The longest serving Town supporter flicked the switch that signalled the start of a bright new era for the ambitious West Lancs League Premier Division side Longridge Town

And veteran fan Fred was delighted that his team finally got the better of their local rivals Garstang that saw top scorer Brad Carsley bag all four of their goals in the second-half in a 4-1 win, to take his personal season’s tally of goals in league and cup to 26 so far.

Fred said: “I’ve been coming along to support Town for more years than l can remember but l was honoured that the chairman asked me to switch on the new floodlights - they were blinding!.

And talking of blinding, Town’s second half show was their first ever home win over their local rivals and the first time that they had scored against their opponents too at the MRG (Mike Riding Ground).

A delighted Town chairman Brian Parkinson added: “This is a very big day for Longridge Town.: 'It signals our intention to push on as a football club and l still think this side has a lot to offer and we are all looking forward to next weekend and another big game at Fulwood who appear to be running away with it at the moment.”