MORE than 50 Accrington Stanley fans gave up their time to make sure the ground looks great for the new season.

Fans turned out in force for Accrington Stanley's Ground Force weekend to get the club's stadium in tip-top condition - especially as last year's FA Cup finalists are on their way.

The League Two season kicks off on Saturday, August 8, against Luton but just three days later they host a League Cup clash with Hull, who played at the likes of Old Trafford and Anfield last season in the Premier League.

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Before that Stanley host three friendlies with Lancashire rivals Blackburn, July 11, Burnley, July 18, and Rochdale, July 28.

The two-day clean up saw a steady stream of volunteers turning up armed with their brooms, paint brushes and tool kits.

Diane Greenhalgh, of Westwood Street, Accrington, has helped out for the past 15 years.

The 66-year-old said: "It's true what they say, many hands make light work!"

And there were some younger supporters as well - Sophie Schofield, 18, from Rawtenstall, and Clarice Trubody, 19, from Haslingden, slapped on a bit of paint, while Sam Wilson, 18, of Devonshire Street, Accrington, helped cut the grass.

Members of the 1st Oswaldtwistle St Paul's Cub Scouts used the day to work towards a Community Challenge badge - CeeJay, 10, used to play for the club's under-7s.

Nick Westwell, chairman of the supporters' club, is now organising another Ground Force day on Sunday, July 12, from 9am to 4pm.

He said: "There was goodwill in abundance and I want to thank everyone who came along and lent a hand.

"We got a lot done and the icing on the cake is that people enjoyed it so much they were asking if they could come back another day and do some more!

"It's the same formula, if you want to help get the ground looking its best, just turn up on the day. It doesn't matter if you can only stay an hour or all day, we'll be delighted to see you."

Refreshments will be provided for volunteers and the club is particularly keen to hear from those with trade skills. For more details email: n.westwell@sky.com.