Humber Premier League

Serving as the elite amateur tier across the East Riding of Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire and operating at level 11 on the football pyramid, the Humber Premier League (HPL), is a vital link between local village/town leagues and the semi-professional Northern Counties East League (NCEL).

Established in 2000, this is considered one of the youngest football leagues at this level in the country, with its primary goal being to provide a high standard of amateur football for clubs in the Hull and Humber region.

At first, this league was dominated by Reckitts AFC; a powerhouse that won five of the first six titles and underlined the league as being a competitive environment and a magnet for industrial-backed clubs and well-renowned amateur sides to clash. In 2005, the league expanded to add Division One.

What You Need To Know About The Humber Premier League

Essentially, this is a league that is considerably well-respected for producing clubs that successfully transition to the NCEL, though promotion isn’t just based on winning a trophy; clubs need to make sure that they meet the ground grading.

Ahead of the 2023/24 season, the club underwent significant change, with the league’s second tier merging with the East Riding County League Division in order to create a much clearer feeder system.

Trivia and Interesting Facts

Being widely respected in the football pyramid, the HPL has notable alumni that includes Beverley Town, Hull United, East Yorkshire Carnegie and Club Thorne Colliery all of whom have played at a higher level.

In addition, the league has also had several sponsors, all of which have helped towards the running and administrative costs. The most recognisable for locals within the region, include Whiteheads Fish and Chips; arguably the most iconic with the domestic cup trophy named after it, while the East Riding County FA is also a major affiliate.

There are a number of clubs that have deep roots in the league, particularly those that experienced early success, such as Reckitts AFC, though also Sulcoates Amateurs and South Cave United are clubs that have a distinguished history in the league.

The league is known for its ties to Hull’s shipping and manufacturing sectors, with many of the players working in these industries as highlighted by Reckitt AFC which are tied to the Reckitt & Colman global brand.

While most of the clubs are based in the East Riding, there are a couple who are based in North Lincolnshire, with these games adding a layer of tension to proceedings, while these Humber Bridge Derbies are also some of the highest attended, drawing local crowds that rival some semi-pro fixtures.