MALVERN Rangers celebrate their 50th anniversary next week with the first West Midlands League Division Two home game at their new ground.

The club, formed in 1963, have moved to Malvern Vale Community Centre, Swineyard Road, and will host Stafford tomorrow (3pm).

Rangers are also lining up a 50th year celebration friendly against a West Mercia Police XI for old and current players followed by a dinner dance and presentation night at The Cross Keys, Belmont Road.

The club were founded by Micheal Moseley in 1963 and played on Peachfield Common in the Malvern Youth League for many seasons.

Brian Burge, current chairman and a player from the early years, moved Rangers to his father’s farm in Belmont with Sam Burge well known for maintaining a fine playing surface.

Along with Roger Kitchener, Brian Burge then moved the town club onto Victoria Park for many seasons before using the playing fields at Lower Howsell Road and Dyson Perrins Academy.

Rangers will wear a new plum and white kit tomorrow and have the backing of the Abbey College, Malvern Wells, including the use of their training facilities.

Refreshments and a programme will be available with admission free.

Rangers opened their season with a 2-2 draw at Red Star Alma when both Steven Dow and Anthony Smith scored.

Their last pre-season friendly also ended 2-2 at Ledbury Town who netted through Jamie Welch and James Dean.