TREVOR Senior is feeling upbeat ahead of this weekend’s momentous friendly against Dorchester Town at St Mary’s Field (4pm).

Not only will the encounter herald the club’s 125th anniversary but it will also be the Bees’ first outing as a Premier Division side since their promotion was rubberstamped by the Western League at last month’s AGM.

Bridport FC was formed in October 1885 but did not take part in competitive action until the following year when they lost against the Magpies 5-1 in their first-ever outing.

Since those early days the Bees have gone on to enjoy a rich history and that is why the club is keen for as many former players and officials to attend on Saturday as possible.

The game will kick-off at 4pm and will be followed by a cheese and wine evening, which will include a silent picture show and the club’s annual sponsorship draw. Officials will also be in attendance to present a trophy to the Bees for being one of the longest serving clubs in the Western League.

Senior said: “It promises to be a fantastic afternoon and all I can do is ask for as many people to turn out as possible.

“The club has sent invites out to as many ex-players and officials as it can but obviously we have not got everyone’s contact details so we are hoping more will come along through hearing about it in the Press.

“As for the game itself, we will be looking to give as many players a run out as we can with most of them getting 45 minutes.

“Due to the time of year, one or two are still missing through holidays and things like that but I have been very pleased with how things have gone in training so far and I know the lads are very much looking forward to getting out there again ahead of the forthcoming season.”

Ryan Dovell’s recent decision to try his luck at Dorchester rather than return to the Bees this summer is still being felt at St Mary’s but it has been offset by the appearance of several trialists at training, including ex-Weymouth midfielder Tom Richardson.

Senior added: “Tom came down for the first session with Sam Charles and his brother Joe. All three of them did really well and I am hoping I will see them again over the next few days.

“Gary McAuley and Matt Moors have also returned and Richard Marshallsay, another former Weymouth and Portland United player, is due to come down this week.

“Sam Filkins is back now as well and we have also managed to get another keeper to come down who used to be at the Aston Villa Academy so all in all things are shaping up well.”

It is unclear at present what side the Magpies will field. Ashley Vickers’ men are also in action tonight against Yeovil Town and on Friday against Exeter City. Entry to Saturday’s game is just £2 and includes a programme.