CLUBS in Dorset have learned of the key cup dates in the 2024/25 footballing calendar.

The FA yesterday released the timings for all rounds of the FA Cup, FA Trophy and FA Vase.

Dorchester Town will enter the FA Cup first qualifying round on Saturday, August 31, while Weymouth join the competition at the second qualifying round stage on Saturday, September 14.

Portland United are in action even earlier during the preliminary rounds on Saturday, August 3 and 17.

The FA Cup this season has courted controversy after it was announced replays would be scrapped from the first round proper onwards, starving non-League teams of the opportunity for a big payday.

READ MORE: Weymouth and Dorchester Town voice anger as FA Cup replays scrapped

Elsewhere, Dorchester will enter the third qualifying round of the FA Trophy on Saturday, October 5, while Weymouth receive a bye to the second round proper, set for Saturday, November 16.

Bridport, who miss out on the FA Cup, will be in FA Vase action from the first qualifying round on Saturday, August 24, along with Portland United.

Elsewhere, Weymouth’s fixtures will be released on Wednesday, July 10 and their National League South season will end on Saturday, April 26.

The Southern League, Wessex League and Peninsula League are all imminently expected to announce details for their divisions.