Preview: Teams prepare for pre-season encounters

Our football teams are gearing up for a schedule of pre-season fixtures ahead of the new season.

Stalybridge Celtic host Barnsley at Bower Fold this evening in what will mark the club's opening friendly. Simon Haworth's side avoided relegation on the last day of last season with a 1-0 victory over Grantham Town. The former Cardiff City striker has since recruited well to rebuild his squad, with the lethal striker force of Scott Bakkor and Neil Kengni committing for another season.

Defender/midfielder Mark Lees returns to the club for another spell, having spent a period on loan from Ashton United last season, while striker Craig Hobson, who also spent time at Ashton United last season, has returned to Bower Fold having played for the Celts from 2009-2012.

Experienced defender Stephen O'Halloran has also joined from FC United, while midfielder Ross Dent and defender Ross Killock have also penned deals.

Meanwhile, across the border in Oldham, Avro host Curzon Ashton at the Vestacare Stadium.

It will be the second game in 24 hours for Mark Bradshaw's side, who cruised to a 3-0 victory at Cheadle Town on Tuesday night. Goals coming courtesy of Danny O'Brien, Sean Miller and Callum Saunders.

Avro, who have claimed back-to-back promotions, enter the game having taken part in a number of training sessions to regain their fitness.

James Hampson and Lee O'Brien's players were put through their paces last week in a number of hill sprints in Manchester.

There has been little news as to the incomings and outgoings at the Vestacare Stadium, but with the season fast approaching it shouldn't be too long until the management team reveal their new recruits.