ILFRACOMBE TOWN'S place in this summer's Joma 2010 South West Challenge Cup has been confirmed.

The Bluebirds' home ground, Marlborough Park, will also stage matches for the second year running.

The announcement confirms that the current top two in the Toolstation League Premier Division — Bideford and Ilfracombe — will be taking part.

Tournament director Mike Bradshaw said: "What a fantastic advert for North Devon football to have the two top sides of the Premier Division declaring their intention to join the tournament before the end of the domestic season.

"If these teams keep going as I think they will, we could end up having the league champions and the runners-up competing in the pre-season tournament.

"These are very early days in the overall planning process but I want to warmly welcome Ilfracombe back to the competition and say how impressed I am at the progress this club is making under the influence of manager Barry Yeo.

"We have addressed a few issues from last year concerning kick-off times and competition structure and everyone now seems satisfied that we can build on their very creditable performances last year."

Ilfracombe chairman Allan Day said: "The management, committee and players welcome the chance again to be able to show what Ilfracombe as a town and a football club has to offer and will treat all visiting players and supporters with the utmost respect."

Barnstaple Town are expected to join their North Devon rivals in the tournament along with nine other clubs, including Football League and overseas outfits.

This year's competition will run from July 12 to 18.