As the 2025/26 season approaches, Bristol Manor Farm anticipates fresh challenges and rivalries with the introduction of seven new clubs to the Southern League Division 1 South. These clubs—Brixham AFC, Frome Town FC, Hartpury FC, Portishead Town FC, Sporting Club Inkberrow FC, Swindon Supermarine FC, and Winchester City FC—bring diverse histories and ambitions to the league. Here’s a closer look at each:
⚓ Brixham AFC – The Fishermen
Founded in 2012 through the merger of Brixham United and Brixham Villa, Brixham AFC has quickly made its mark in Devonian football. Their nickname, The Fishermen, reflects the town’s rich maritime heritage. In the 2022/23 season, they achieved their best FA Vase run, reaching the last 16. Last season they won promotion to step 4 for the first time in the club’s history by beating Clevedon Town in the playoff final.
🔴 Frome Town FC – The Robins
Established in 1904, Frome Town FC, known as The Robins, boasts a rich history in Somerset football. In their first year back in step 3 football they were unable to avoid the drop, marking an immediate return to the Division 1 South following their playoff victory the year prior.
🌳 Hartpury FC – The Acorns
Hartpury FC is a relatively young club with a strong connection to Hartpury University. The club has rapidly progressed through the leagues, reflecting the university’s emphasis on sports excellence. Hartpury continued their ascent by clinching the Hellenic League Premier Division title with a 2–0 victory over Roman Glass St George alongside an FA Vase run which saw them exit at the Semi Final stage.
⚪ Portishead Town FC – Posset
Founded in 1912, Portishead Town FC, affectionately known as Posset, has a rich history in North Somerset football.Their home ground, Bristol Road, has undergone a recent redevelopment to include an artificial playing surface. Portishead won the Western League last season as they secured back to back league titles
🦅 Sporting Club Inkberrow FC – The Eagles
Sporting Club Inkberrow FC, known as The Eagles, has rapidly ascended following their formation in 1978 and introduction to the non league pyramid in 2023. Last season ended with a playoff victory over high worth, making their third promotion in 3 years to find themselves at step 4 for the first time in their history.
🔵 Swindon Supermarine FC – The Marine
Swindon Supermarine FC was founded in 1992 following a merger between Supermarine FC and Swindon Athletic FC. In recent years they have been a solid side at step 3 but last season they finished in the relegation spots too return to step 4.
🔴 Winchester City FC – The Citizens
Founded in 1884 as Winchester Swallows FC, Winchester City FC, known as The Citizens, has a long-standing tradition in Hampshire football. They reached step 3 football in 2023 following a playoff win over the Farm but struggled last year in a season which ended in relegation. Their home ground, City Ground, has undergone a makeover since the Farm’s last visit and now boasts an artificial playing surface.
As these clubs embark on their journey in the Southern League Division 1 South, Bristol Manor Farm looks forward to the challenges and rivalries that will unfold. We will shortly be announcing our pre season friendlies and will find out the fixture list for the coming season in July so keep your eyes peeled for those announcements.
