BOWERS & Pitsea are set to get their pre-season schedule underway by going head-to-head with League Two side Colchester United in a friendly.

Rob Small’s side won the Isthmian North title last term and are preparing for a maiden season in the Isthmian Premier League.

And Bowers are now scheduled to welcome Colchester’s first team to the Len Salmon Stadium on Friday, July 5.

Colchester, who are managed by John McGreal, finished eighth in the League Two standings last season.

And Bowers boss Rob Small will be hoping for his newly-promoted side to give a good account of themselves - while getting much-needed minutes following an extended break from the pitch - against Football League opposition.

Bowers are also due to welcome National League South sides Concord Rangers and Chelmsford City, along with Basildon United, Chesham United and Morpeth Town to the Len Salmon Stadium during pre-season as they get up to speed before getting the new campaign underway in August.

The reigning Isthmian North champions, who finished 12 points clear of second-placed Aveley last term, are also due to visit Mark Bentley’s Canvey Island and Saffron Walden Town.