We’re delighted to announce the launch of ‘No Money, No Team’, a brand-new book exploring football in Stalybridge between the late 1880s through to the early 1900s. 

Written by Neil Wolstenholme and Peter Hoctor, ‘No Money, No Team’ delves into the story behind Stalybridge Rovers, who were Stalybridge’s senior football team from 1885 until their collapse in 1908. A telegram sent to Clitheroe one Saturday morning said it all: "No money, no team." Stalybridge Rovers were gone, and with them the town's place in the football pyramid.

The void did not last long. A small amateur club called Stalybridge Celtic, which had existed quietly on the edges of the local game, found itself the only senior football side left in the town. 

The book tells the full story of professional football in Stalybridge from 1880 to 1923. Drawing on contemporary newspaper accounts, club records, eyewitness reports and a wealth of original research, it charts the rise and fall of two ambitious clubs and the men who tried to build them. Along the way it shines a light on figures whose careers began in Stalybridge before reaching national prominence, and on the social and economic forces that shaped, and ultimately destroyed, the town's footballing dreams.

We’re now taking pre-orders for ‘No Money, No Team’, which is priced at £15. All profits from the book will be going to support the Club’s Junior Teams, helping to support the next generation of Celtic players.

If you would like to purchase a copy of the book, please let us know by completing the form available here. This will allow Neil and Peter to ensure copies are available for supporters to purchase. Upon collecting, payment can be made by both cash or card.

The book will be available to collect at Bower Fold on Saturday 15th August before our home game with Hanley Town. Books will be able to collect from 1pm in Grays Now.

Please ensure you have registered your pre-order using the form no later than July 31st.

For those unable to collect a physical copy and would like to purchase the book, further purchasing options will be made available in August.