FA Trophy action returns to the borough today (Saturday, 9 October) with Aveley playing host to Uxbridge at Parkside, while Tilbury travel to Faversham.

Both matches are in the Second Qualifying Round.

At Rookery Hill injury-hit East Thurrock play host to neighbours Hornchurch in the Isthmian Premier, a match that will see the Rocks' all time record scorer Sam Higgins return in an opposition shirt!

It is also something of a game of mixed loyalties for Hornchurch director and stalwart Colin McBride who, through his long time friendship with the family of the late Rocks owner Ben Bennett has guided East Thurrock through their transition period to the ownership of Alfie Best and helped keep the club going through its crisis times.

McBride is well-known in the borough for his years of involvement at now defunct Thurrock FC, who he guided to great success. He was also, as chairman, instrumental in taking former Grays boss Mark Stimson to Hornchurch. Under his leadership the Urchins won the FA Trophy last season!

Grays, who went out of the Trophy in the previous round, are without a match - and they will also be sidelined next weekend because their scheduled opponents are in the FA Cup.