CRAY Wanderers are to take part in a round-robin tournament against the world’s oldest clubs in Sheffield to help mark their 150th anniversary.

Formed in 1860 the Wands hold the title as the second oldest side behind Sheffield FC, who began three years earlier, while Hallam FC are also 150 this year.

Wands chairman Gary Hillman has dubbed it ‘the world’s oldest club tournament’ and sees it as a fitting way to mark the three sides’ remarkable existence.

Hillman said: “Plenty of local clubs have fallen by the wayside in the 150 years we have been going.

“Good non-league teams like Darenth, Slade Green and Swanley Alma have all disappeared along with others.

“For us to keep on going and reach the level that we have, which is the highest Cray has ever played at, is worth celebrating.”

With the nomadic Wanderers looking to return to their Cray roots in a new purpose built stadium, Hillman is certain the club has a healthy future.

He said: “The main thing for us is to get this new ground up and running and get the structure right, which will create a bit of stability for the club as well as a buzz around the Cray area.

“In non-league it is about the community spirit, pride, tradition, and not just money like higher up the football pyramid.

“With the knock on effect of the World Cup, people are turning their backs on the professional game, so hopefully we can capitalise on that and get people interested in Cray Wanderers.”

As well as the friendly tournament at Sheffield FC on 31 July, the Wands will also line up against international opposition when they face Guyana, also known as the ‘All Stars’, on 8 August.

Hillman said: “We are playing our first international side at Dulwich Hamlet’s ground, which will be a big celebration with live music, Caribbean food, stalls and entertainment.

“Hopefully two or three thousand people will come down and join in.”

Tickets for the Sheffield tournament are priced at £6 for adults and £3 concessions.