Last season the pair successfully guided Bedlington Terriers Reserves to the North Northumberland League Second Division championship at the first attempt, with the team averaging over seven goals a game, while hitting double figures on no less than six occasions.

Silverware was also won in the shape of the league's Robson and Runciman cups and many of the Ritchie's talented young players have now made the summer switch to play in The Villagers colours at Purvis Park, including ex-Blyth Town centre forward Joe Betts who plundered 58 league goals and many more in the cups.

While most of last season's Percy Main squad have also put pent to paper, some 16 new signings have already been brought in to create what looks like The Main's strongest squad for some years.

A tough pre season training regime commenced on June 14 while a few testing friendlies have been lined up in preparation for the season's curtain opener at Seaton Burn on August 9.

This Saturday The Main will travel to Northburn to take on old adversaries Shankhouse, kick-off is 2.30.

Percy Main then have an attractive home game next Wednesday (July 23) when Northern League First Division outfit Bedlington Terriers provide the opposition for a 7pm kick-off – while a week later the team will venture into unchartered territory to take on Durham and District Premier League side Pelton.

On August 2 Percy Main and North Shields will contest the annual Gary Hull Memorial Trophy, in remembrance of the former Villagers treasurer and committee member, kick off for this game is 3pm.