We continue our summer study of the new clubs joining us in National League North for the 2026/27 campaign – and today we’re off to Staffordshire.

How did they get here?
Hednesford Town return to National League North after sealing promotion through the Northern Premier League Premier Division play-offs in dramatic fashion last season.

The Pitmen finished second in the table before overcoming Warrington Rylands in the Play-Off Final at Keys Park, eventually triumphing on penalties to complete a remarkable rise through the non-league pyramid.

Their success meant back-to-back promotions were clinched after they had also been promoted from the Northern Premier League West Division in 2024/25.

The Staffordshire club have enjoyed something of a resurgence since new ownership arrived in 2024, restoring one of non-league football’s traditional names to Step 2 football for the first time in over a decade.

Where do they play?
Hednesford play their home fixtures at Keys Park, a modern stadium on the edge of Cannock Chase with a capacity of just over 6,000.

Opened in 1995 following the club’s departure from Cross Keys Park, the ground has hosted National League football in the past and is widely regarded as one of the better facilities in non-league football.

The Pitmen regularly attract some of the largest crowds at their level and will be hoping their supporters can help them make a successful return to National League North action.

Who is in charge?
Former Premier League goalkeeper Kelvin Davis is the man in the dugout at Keys Park.

Best known for his lengthy spell with Southampton, where he captained the club from League One to the Premier League, Davis was appointed by Hednesford in February and immediately delivered promotion at the first attempt.

The former Sunderland shot-stopper succeeded Gavin Hurren during the run-in and guided The Pitmen through the play-offs to secure their place in the division.

When did we last meet?
Moors supporters may need to cast their minds back for the last competitive meeting between the two clubs.

The sides have not faced each other since Hednesford’s previous spell in National League North during the mid-2010s, meaning the 2026/27 campaign will see the clubs renew acquaintances after more than a decade apart.

It will also mean a first competitive visit to Keys Park in many years and another new away day to add to the calendar for travelling fans.