Ilkley Town AFC women are preparing for their first ever FA Cup adventure as they welcome tier 5 Chesterfield ladies to the MPM stadium on Sunday 22 September in the second qualifying round.
This opportunity comes after a successful 23/24 season where Ilkley secured promotion to the West Riding County Women’s Football League (WRCWFL) Premier Division (tier 7) after winning the Division One title.
In addition the 23/24 season also saw the inception of a brand new development team to improve both the infrastructure and opportunity for female footballers within the club and local area, providing a progressive pathway into senior football. The development team competed in WRCWFL Division Four last season and consolidated their position with a very respectable mid table finish.
With the 24/25 season now underway the club is showing no signs of slowing down as over 40 women are already signed on with more and more players are showing an interest in getting involved.
Ilkley Town AFC women’s manager Claire Armstrong had this to say:
“We’re moving in the right direction and constantly looking at ways to improve the experience for female footballers. The club is committed to supporting this process and has ensured we can provide high quality facilities, coaching, onsite physio support and a really attractive player package inclusive of a club tracksuit & training kit."
Chesterfield ladies have enjoyed a strong start to the new season with a 100% record and will provide a huge challenge for Armstrong’s side, Claire added:
“Chesterfield look like a wonderful side with a lot of quality, a great & progressive infrastructure and are incredibly professional in what they do. Their aim is clearly to gain promotion to the National League (tier 4) and their Summer recruitment reflects that. In some ways what they are doing is aspirational but what an opportunity for our players, irrespective of result to play against a high quality side and learn so much.”
Kick off is 2pm on Sunday at the MPM stadium at Ben Rhydding Sports Club on Leeds Road and entry to watch is free.
If you’re 16 years old or over and have an interest in getting involved then please contact Claire on 07854575449 for further details.
Ilkley Pre-School faces closure without urgent financial lifeline
MP shares update on redevelopment of Airedale Hospital
Age UK shop is Ilkley appeals for donations as stocks are low
Fuggle & Golding saved by Horsforth Brewery
Joanna seeks life-extending treatment after brain tumour diagnosis
Winners revealed for Ilkley Business Awards 2026
Airedale Hospital charity hits the road for its fifth annual World Book Day adventure
Yorkshire Water, what is happening behind all those blue hoardings?
Ilkley Cemetery's Beanlands Parade gates repairs
Local MP backs campaign to protect affordable residential experiences for young people
Claire Baxter Gallery announces closure in Ilkley
Ilkley's Annual Town Meeting and Citizen Awards 2026
Outside the Box and Ilkley Live make music together
New drone will be used 'wherever it is needed' to stop fly tipping
Calendar of events announced at Burley-in-Wharfedale Community Trust AGM
Experience the magic of opera at charity gala in Ilkley
Your Local Experiences earns thousands for local businesses in first month
Four Ilkley businesses in finals of Leeds Oliver Awards 2026
Ilkley Wharfedale Rotary involved with eradicating Polio worldwide
International Women’s Day talk to celebrate ‘Brilliant Bradford Lasses’
