COLNE and Darwen have been preparing for their NWCL Division Two local derby at Holt House in different fashions.

Steve Wilkes's Darwen have taken up step aerobics as they haven't had a league clash since mid-January.

And John Lister's Colne have been tackling the horrendous weather conditions while playing pranks on each other to keep them smiling.

"I usually throw in an aerobics session two or three times a season and this one was hilarious - especially as I was watching. That is one of the perks of being a manager!" said Wilkes.

"The co-ordination wasn't the best but it gets them fit and it is something different. We have also been playing head tennis and the bleep test.

"We haven't had a game for ages so it keeps the players interested."

Lister was pleased with the turnout midweek.

"I couldn't believe it, they all turned up and the weather was awful! They are a mischievous bunch though - especially the younger lads - and they are forever playing jokes on each other.

"It is good as it means the spirit is good at the club and it also means any new lads settle in easily - as they are usually the victims of the pranks!"

The two sides met earlier in the season with Colne winning 1-0 after Darwen had a man sent off early on and then missed a penalty.

"I am not surprised Ross Baxter saved the penalty as he stands at 6ft 5in and has saved seven out of nine spot kicks this season," said the Colne chief. "He is a formidable character."

Wilkes used to be at Preston North End with Ross's dad Nick.

"He was tiny last time I saw him, he has certainly changed!" laughed the Darwen boss.

Lister admits that Colne's current postion - seventh in the League after struggling in the bottom two last season - has been thanks to some fortune.

"I think we have had the rub of the green this season. When things are going well more things seem to go for you.

"But saying that we have a good young set up here and the confidence is high. More and more scouts are coming to watch certain players. I just want to make sure I can keep the team together."

Wilkes is full of praise for what the young manager has done at Colne.

"He has done a fantastic job as a couple of seasons ago teams used to turn up at Colne expecting to get the three points.

"But he has turned it around. They have some young lads and some experienced ones. They have a good mixture there and I am pleased for them."

Darwen are without the suspended Matt Anderton while Andy Walsh has returned from the Dominican Republic.

For Colne, Mark Berry is out as he is in America with the county while James Webster is suspended. Debutant Andy Lawson and Chris Ingham are expected to start.

COLNE are on the hunt for someone who can help with finances or give advice on how to get grants etc.