WORCESTER City are no strangers to long away trips and they don't come much longer than today's match at Workington (3.07pm).

City will clock up around 450 miles travelling to Cumbria and back for their penultimate Skrill North away fixture of the campaign.

But, with Workington seemingly set for relegation, something that would be confirmed with a Worcester victory, next season's carbon footprint might look a bit healthier.

Following the demotion of Blyth Spartans at the end of the 2011-12 season, a round trip in excess of 500 miles, two of the traditional long haul jaunts will be no longer for the Blue and Whites.

There will still be trips to the likes of Barrow, Harrogate and Guiseley, should the latter not be promoted through the play-offs, but Workington's relegation is unlikely to upset many.

The amount of travelling in Conference North has long been an issue of debate and prompted discussion over returning to more regional leagues.

Worcester, like Workington, can only benefit from shorter distances as it cuts the cost of travelling, while also potentially boosting attendances.

That could certainly be the case next season for City with Tamworth facing relegation from the Skrill Premier and FC United of Manchester once again in the promotion shake-up in the Evo-Stik Northern League Premier Division.

Over 4,000 fans turned out for their clash against title rivals Chorley this week, which ended 2-2, and their presence in Conference North would be a huge boost.

More pertinently, Hereford United are entrenched in a relegation battle in non-league's top-flight and possible derby clashes with Worcester will not have escaped the notice of City fans.

Even the promotion of Stourbridge via the Calor Southern League Premier Division play-offs would be a welcome addition to the ranks from a Worcester perspective.

Sooner that, than the annual trek to Workington.