Atherton Collieries Football Club, nicknamed “The Colls,” is a non-league football club based in Manchester, Lancashire.
Established in 1970, they currently compete in the Pitching In Northern Premier League Premier Division, which is part of the seventh tier of English football. The team calls Alder House their home ground.
History
Founded in 1916 by miners, Atherton Collieries Football Club was established to support the war effort’s welfare. Playing at Alder House since its inception, the club has maintained its historical essence despite modern renovations. The Collieries became founding members of the North West Counties Football League (NWCFL) in 1982 and achieved a significant milestone by earning promotion to the Northern Premier League in 2017.
Atherton Collieries has a notable history of producing professional players, including Anthony Pilkington, who progressed to the Football League and Premier League, and even the Republic of Ireland’s international squad. The club also has historical ties to Bolton Wanderers, highlighted by annual pre-season friendlies that draw large crowds.
Managed by Michael Clegg since August 2014, the club quickly found success, winning the NWCFL Division One title and the Bolton Hospital Cup in his first season. Their centenary year, 2016/17, was particularly successful, as they clinched the NWCFL Premier Division title and reached the last 16 of the FA Vase, supported by a growing local fan base. Now competing at a higher level in non-league football, Atherton Collieries continues to thrive with strong community support, embodying the increasing interest in non-league football.
Legal
Atherton Collieries FC C.I.C. is a registered company in England and Wales under company number 07420002 .
As a Community Interest Company (CIC), it operates to provide benefits to the community and is regulated by the Community Interest Company Regulator.