Wisbech Town manager Steve Appleby. Picture Brian Purdy

WISBECH Town have announced plans for six pre-season friendlies - but a clash with fierce rivals King’s Lynn Town is not one of them.

With fans clamouring for the money-spinning pre-season derby, Fenmen boss Steve Appleby approached the Linnets about playing home and away friendlies.

But Lynn, who will play in the Evo-Stik League Division One South next season after securing promotion from the United Counties League, provided no official response.

Appleby said: “I phoned Setch (Lynn manager Gary Setchell) and text Buster (chairman Buster Chapman) asking for a home and away friendly.

“I thought it could be a way of building a few bridges and making our rivalry friendlier. It could also have been a good money-earner for both clubs.

“We also asked Wisbech St Mary but we couldn’t agree dates. Both, along with the arranged March game would have been great for local interest. It is disappointing.”

The Fenmen will travel to March Town United on July 21 for the annual BKD Charity Cup friendly (Kick-off 3pm).

They will also make pre-season trips to Sleaford Town (July 14, Kick-off 3pm) and Spalding United (July 17, Kick-off 7.45pm).

Appleby’s side will conclude their pre-season schedule with ties at the Elgood’s Fenland Stadium.

Peterborough Northern Star (July 24, Kick-off 7.45pm) and Holbeach United (July 26, Kick-off 7.45pm) will be the visitors while a final friendly against Long Buckby (July 28, Kick-off 3pm) is yet to be confirmed.