New book covers past glories

Written by supporter Michael Chatwin, ‘Nantwich Town in the North West Counties League’ looks back on the club's 25 seasons in the NWCFL from its inauguration in 1982 through to their promotion to the Northern Premier League in 2007.

The 40 page publication is packed full of statistics with the dates, fixtures, results and scorers for each of Nantwich’s 1246 league and cup games during their tenure in the NWCFL. Attendances and half-times are also included where known and there is a squad photo and final table for each season.

Chatwin, who attended the club's first outing in the NWCFL at home to Rhyl in August 1982 and saw current Dabbers boss Phil Parkinson skipper them to promotion in their last outing away at Salford in April 2007, believes his new book will show fans and neutrals alike just how far they have come in recent years ahead of their two legged tie against FC Halifax for a place at Wembley in Non-League's showpiece final.

He said: “The Dabbers spent some great years in the North West Counties and I wanted to make sure this period in the club’s history was properly recorded.

"In recent seasons, Nantwich have rubbed shoulders with the likes of Stockport County, Chester and Halifax Town but it’s not always been that way. Older fans will remember visits to the likes of Daisy Hill, Ford Motors and Whitworth Valley to name but a few.

“Many fans and officials have fond memories of the club’s time in the NWCFL, the grounds we visited and the friendly people we met. At times the club struggled, dipping down to the old NWCFL Third Division, but there were many happier times too - like winning the League Cup and, of course, the FA Vase.”

Nantwich scored 1,958 league and cup goals during their NWCFL days and the author does have one regret; his records and research have uncovered all but one of those scorers.

He added: “Despite my best efforts, I just haven’t been able to trace the scorer of the Dabbers’ goal in a 4-1 defeat at Maghull in April 1987. If anyone wants to claim it – I’d love to hear from them!”

‘Nantwich Town in the North West Counties League - the complete record, 1982 to 2007’, is sponsored by Nantwich Refrigeration Services. Priced at £4, the book is available from the club shop at the Weaver Stadium and from the Nantwich Bookshop. Alternatively, contact Michael at: mdchat@hotmail.com.

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