NON-LEAGUE clubs continue their pre-season preparations, with some just a fortnight away from the start of the new campaign.

East Thurrock United welcome a young Colchester United side to the FutureFuel Stadium, with the U’s under-23s expected to make the trip.

Manager John Coventry told the Echo on Tuesday that he believed the friendly would be a good test for his squad’s fitness levels, a fortnight before their National League South opener against Hampton & Richmond Borough.

Concord Rangers are also at home, with Margate heading to the Aspect Arena.

Relegated last season, the Kent side have built a strong squad in the off-season and expect to be one of Billericay Town’s main challengers in the Isthmian Premier League next season.

Billericay’s second pre-season warm-up is at Bishop’s Stortford.

Town were winners against St Albans City last weekend, and will be keen to maintain a winning run in pre-season to build confidence ahead of a big league campaign.

Canvey Island welcome opponents from abroad when they do battle with Belgian outfit Patro Eisden Maasmechelen tonight.

The match kicks off at 7:45pm and the visitors, managed by former Belgian international Danny Boffin, play in the Belgian First Amateur Division.

Bowers & Pitsea travel to Essex Senior League opponents Enfield 1893, aiming to continue their unbeaten start to pre-season following Tuesday’s 1-1 draw with National League side Dagenham & Redbridge.