CHIPPENHAM Town will host Skybet League Two side Newport County in a friendly as they prepare for their new National League South campaign next season.

Mark Collier's side, whose place in National League South was confirmed this weekend after their Evo-Stik League Southern Premier Division title triumph last month, will entertain the Welsh side - a former club of striker Andy Sandell - on Tuesday, July 18 (7.30pm).

The Bluebirds, who have already secured the futures of 15 of their title-winning line-up for next season, as well as signing Weymouth's duo of Dean Evans and Mark Cooper, have also announced three other friendlies as part of their summer programme.

Town will travel to Banbury United on Saturday, July 22 (3pm), followed by Bristol's Hallem on Tuesday, July 25 (7.30pm).

Collier's men will also visit nearby Melksham Town, bossed by former Bluebirds chief Darren Perrin, on Saturday, July 29 (3pm).

Town chairman Neil Blackmore hopes the town will come out to back his side as they embark on their higher-level assignment later this year.

Following confirmation of their place in National League South, Blackmore said: "Promotion is testament to how far the club has progressed in recent seasons under the leadership of the current management team and is also a reflection of the application and team spirit that has been evident in the squad during this time. 

"It is also a reflection of the energy and drive of all those who contribute behind the scenes and who work hard to ensure that we have a successful and supportable football club.

"With the addition of some new players, I believe we can look forward with confidence to the forthcoming season in the National League (South), the highest position the club has achieved in the football pyramid in its history. 

"It will undoubtedly be a challenge but one I am sure we will all relish. 
I also look forward to the people of Chippenham supporting the club in increased numbers next season as we endeavour to consolidate our place at the next level.''