Workington disappeared off the football map in 1977 and were replaced by Wimbledon – or MK Dons, if you prefer. As managers of the elite clubs nurse their players through the demanding schedules of the latter part of the season, it’s time to spare a thought for the players of Workington AFC. It’s unlikely that a former Workington manager, Bill Shankly, would have made a fuss. As the club strives to reach the play offs of the Blue Square North, a mixture of bad weather and a successful FA Trophy run have caused a fixture pile up. Having been unable to play between 12 December and 19 January, Workington are currently in a run of ten games in four weeks, nine of which are away from home – a total of 2406 miles of travel notwithstanding the inconvenience caused for players since the bridge in Workington was swept away last year and divided the town.

Having won three consecutive games away from home at Eastwood Town, Harrogate Town and Hinckley United by 2-1, Workington AFC now face seven games in 22 days in April. For Workington AFC, being in the regionalised Blue Square North helps little with the distances they have to travel – outings to Gloucester City and Corby Town are 260 and 268 miles respectively. So, it’s good luck to The Reds, as they aim to edge a step nearer the Football League.