COLNE are aiming for their best finish in the Lancashire League for 10 years as they go from the strength to strength - with the title the ultimate goal.

The Horsfield side have gone from whipping boys to nearly men in recent years and are now gunning for a runners-up spot behind champions elect Haslingden.

Chairman John Whiteside believes the club is probably two years off a side capable of winning the championship but admitted he would be absolutely delighted to grab second spot.

He said: "When you consider we came bottom for six consecutive seasons a few years ago we have come a long way since. We have a young side here and a terrific professional and I believe are just a few years off creating a very good side.

"I would be happy with third or fourth place but second would be absolutely terrific."

While professional Ben Johnson hasn't quite rediscovered last year's form which saw the record books re-written when he hit a blistering 1,718 runs, with more than 700 runs to his name so far, he is proving to be one of the best run-getters around.

Whiteside added: "Ben has been superb and is a model professional. It would be great to see him stay around next season and we will be doing all we can to persuade him to stay."

Colne will be looking to avenge last weekend's defeat against Burnley when they travel to their local rivals this Sunday.

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