Evesham United and Malvern Town are both disappointed to miss out on derby days against Worcester City, after City's surprise placement in the Northern Premier League. 

Several predictions had Worcester City being placed in the Southern League, after their promotion in 23/24, with Evesham United and Malvern Town, leaving many confused when the side became the most southern side in the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands in May.

Micky Brennan, vice chairman of Evesham United, said: "We are very disappointed that Worcester is not in our league. We have many long trips next year."

Toby Platt, secretary at Malvern Town, shared a similar sentiment: "It is a shame we miss out on the derby game against Worcester but wish them all the best."

Both Evesham and Malvern will continue their stint in the South League South Division One, where their longest away days to Mousehole AFC in Cornwall are staggering 500-mile round trips, and, with recent promotions and relegations, there will be two more trips over 450 miles long next season.

Micky explained how damaging these long distances can be on the club: "We as a club have extra costs for hotels and coaches. 

"It is becoming very expensive to run non-league teams these days, and without a great committee who excel in raising funds we wouldn't survive."

While Evesham's men's side are the headline act at the club, there are hundreds more footballers than need funding as well. 

"We will always ensure that the club is sustainable.

"We are a community club and support 28 teams, so we have a responsibility to ensure the club is well run."

The geography of the country puts teams like Malvern and Evesham at a disadvantage, as Toby explains: "Being geographically situated on that North/South border, we acknowledge this is somewhat part of life."

Last season was Malvern Town's first season in the Southern League after promotion in 2021/22. The side finished mid-table and hope to continue their push up the football pyramid.

"We are building a strong and committed squad and hope to build on progress from last season."

Worcester City owner Simon Lancaster was not surprised to be split from fellow Worcestershire sides, but does see pros and cons to their division placement: "I was disappointed to miss out on those local derbies, our supporters and everyone at the club have enjoyed those.

"I am sure there will be opportunities for those in cup competitions."