Thirsk Falcons FC will celebrate 50 years of league football as they start the 2002-03 season.

Established in 1949, the club played friendly matches before joining the Thirsk and District League in 1952, competing against sides such as Thirsk United, Kilvington United, Kirby Wiske and Sowerby St Oswald's. Falcons won the league and village cup in the 1953-54 season.

The club's first team now plays in division one of the Harrogate and District League and a new second team will start the coming season in the third division.

The second team has been formed to encourage local younger players and to introduce them to senior football.

The Black Lion and GSM Graphic Arts will again be the main sponsors of the teams.

Last season, Falcons missed out on promotion by one place and also reached two cup finals. They are hoping to pick up some silverware this year.

Pre-season training has started, with sessions on Wednesdays at 7pm on the Flatts. They are open to all players, new and old. For further information, contact Mark Sherwood on 01347 822337.

Pictured are Falcons past and present, from left: Reg Codling (club president 1971-present), Mark Sherwood (secretary), Steve Banthorpe (second team manager), Rudy Pearce (chairman), Mike Webster (first team manager), Ian Codling (chairman and manager 1969-2000).