SOCCER action in the Devonshire Carpets Craven & District League gets underway on Wednesday with a programme of Division Three matches.

The opening night's action also features the league three newcomers - Oakbank Juniors, Rolls-Royce Reserves and Barnoldswick Barons.

The Oakworth side, who entertain Skipton Bulldogs Reserves on their debut, has been created to allow a team from the club's younger section to progress en masse and the situation is similar at Barnoldswick, who at home to Cowling Reserves.

Rolls-Royce seniors are campaigning again in the East Lancashire League, but their back-up team will be in action in the Craven League next term and kick off with a home match against Gargrave Reserves.

Only absentee this season in a competition that will involve four divisions of 12 teams will be Colne Shepherds, who have disbanded.

Their departure is welcome news for Skipton Town, who avoid relegation from Division One, and Grindleton Reserves, who hold onto their place in Division Two.

Other Division Three matches on Wednesday are: Earby Town v Hellifield Sports Reserves, Pendle Athletic v Earby, Waddington reserves v Skipton Town Reserves.

Silsden United open their home West Riding County Amateur League programme at Cougar Park on Wednesday (6.30) when they entertain Bradford side Tyersal.

Premier Division champions last season, Silsden have their sights set on playing at a higher level and their switch to ground-share at Cougar Park will hopefully open up new avenues for them.

Silsden go into the game on the back of an opening league win against Otley Town, when a single second-half goal from Andy Holden delivered the points.