Excitement is building at Felixstowe & Walton as they prepare for life at Step 4 – and Isthmian football.

The Seasiders have been working hard on and off the pitch to get ready for their new adventure and joint first-team boss Ian Watson says players and fans are really looking forward to it.

“We are all back in training now, the first team, reserves and under-18s,” he said.

“It was good to see all the squads – about 50 lads – running along Felixstowe seafront the other evening. It was quite a sight.

“I’ve been here three years now and I know the club has sat in the shadows of teams like Needham, Leiston, Sudbury and Bury for a long time.

“It’s fantastic to see what is happening and I’m sure all the people of Felixstowe know what is going on here.”

There is little doubt much progress has been made on and off the pitch at the Goldstar Ground.

But when the business of league games really starts, Watson and joint boss Kevin O’Donnell know it will a tough and their team will have to adapt.

“We have already spoken to the players about what they will be facing and how they will need to play,” Watson said.

“We will have to mix it up a bit, we know that.”

And what Isthmian North clubs does Watson feel have a good chance of title glory?

“There are some good teams in our league,” Watson said.

“Mildenhall have made some good signings and Heybridge are one to watch, while Canvey Island are another team who have signed some good players.

“But to be honest there are a lot of very good teams in our league.

“A top 10 finish would be decent for us.

“I have been speaking to many of our fans in recent weeks and they just can’t wait for the season to start, different grounds and different teams.

“Many of them have worked so hard to get to the club to this point. And a lot of money has been raised and spent on the ground and facilities.”

Jack Ainsley, from Leiston is the Seasiders’ key signing of the summer.

“We have already seen in training Jack’s quality,” added Watson.

“It’s great Jack has ‘come home’, so to speak. And I would like to thank Leiston and especially Glen Driver in helping with the move. Jack will bring much to our club.”