The chairman of Dereham Town has said it is 'game on' ahead of its historic FA Cup match this weekend.

Magpies' chairman Mike Baldry said there was a 'buzz' in the town about the team and its future and he was 'thrilled' about the success so far.

The Magpies have reached the third qualifying round of the FA Cup and will take on Ryman League side Met Police at Aldiss Park on Saturday.

Mr Baldry, who thinks the score will be 2-1 to Dereham Town, said: 'We have been playing well and we'll give them a game. We shocked the last team and they went home with their tails between their legs - they were shell-shocked.

'I think it is game on. We'll give them a game of football and I like to think we can win.'

But he added the match against the Met Police would be tough.

'It is good for the town. We have got a fantastic youth set up and we have got some good people coming through,' Mr Baldry said.

As well as the first team and the reserves, there are about 15 youth teams which attract many youngsters from Dereham high and primary schools.

The chairman said: 'We have not got the big money in Dereham but we make people feel welcome and are friendly. We have got some local lads coming through, which is a step in the right direction.'

Meanwhile local messages of support for the Magpies have been coming in through the Dereham Times Facebook page and Dereham Times website.

Robin Goreham, chairman of Breckland Council, said: 'Wishing the players, management and supporters of Dereham Town FC all the very best in their forthcoming FA Cup match. This is your chance to make history. Come on you Magpies!'

Admission prices on Saturday will be �6.50 for adults and �3.50 for concessions but parking is free within Aldiss Park. Fans are advised to arrive early to avoid queues on Norwich Road.

The FA will be covering the match as part of its Road to Wembley feature.

It is currently following the Met Police, and it will continue to follow the winner of the match into the next round.