Watford will begin preparing for life in the top flight of English football with a trip to local non-league side, Northwood on Tuesday 25 July, kick-off 7.30pm.
Despite their now elevated status the Golden Boys has not forgotten their Southern League Premier Division neighbours, who over the last few years have provided the Vicarage Road outfit with Scott Fitzgerald and more recently, Jay DeMerit.
Confirming the date with the Premiership new boys a clearly delighted Woods' Chairman, Ken Green said,
“It's brilliant news for us that despite their new Premiership status, Watford do not forget the local clubs, and I am very grateful to Aidy Boothroyd and Graham Simpson for that. It will be a great night both for our supporters, and for Watford's."
DeMerit arrived at Vicarage Road after impressing former manager, Ray Lewington in a pre-season friendly between the clubs two years ago, and as part of his transfer Watford also visited Chestnut Avenue at the start of the 2005/06 campaign, a hat-trick by Marlon King and further goals by Anthony McNamee, Dominic Blizzard, Hameur Bouazza and the now departed Junior ensuring a comfortable 7-1 victory for Aidy Boothroyd's men.
A reminder that the Barclays Premiership season kicks-off on Saturday 19 August 2006.