ROSSENDALE United have hailed the addition of FC United to the new UniBond League set-up as like finding a new sponsor for the club.

The restructuring has seen the creation of two 18-team First Divisions, with a north/south split from across the area, with the rebel Manchester outfit brought in alongside 'Dale, Chorley and Clitheroe.

Since their formation, FC United have taken the North West Counties League by storm, regularly steam-rollering opposition, roared on by an average of over 2000 fans, home and away.

And current Rossendale secretary Kevin Proctor said their inclusion was a massive boost to the cash-strapped club.

He said: "Rossendale charge £6 at the gate for admission, but they (FC United) bring up to 2000 fans to away games. If we could get that at the beginning of the season it would be like getting a new sponsor on board.

"North West Counties teams have enjoyed it, they've never had attendances like it before. Now we can enjoy it.

"At the end of last season we played Telford when they were going for promotion and there were more than 1200 supporters here, the place was packed. But FC United will bring double that amount."

Although the exact number of games in the new season has still to be ratified, it is understood there will be fewer matches played.

But Chorley manager Gerry Luzcka has no problem with that and is delighted to see more local matches instead.

He said: "It certainly makes a lot more sense to have divisions where there are a lot more local derbies.

"It will reduce the amount of travelling, which means it's less expensive for the fans. They can watch us playing on their doorstep.

"It's not just about FC United, it'll be a very competitive league next season and of course they'll add a little spice to it."

Clitheroe chairman Carl Garner added: "It's an exciting time for everyone involved in the league and it's going to be a big challenge next season."