In an historic first, Cornish sides competing in step 4 of the non-league football pyramid will be able to take part in the Cornwall Senior Cup from the 2024-25 season.

The Cornwall Senior Cup allows sides from leagues at various levels enter into what is the county’s most prestigious domestic trophy.

The change to the format means that teams in the Southern League Division One South (step 4) will be able to take part in the competition. This includes Mousehole and the newly promoted duo of Helston Athletic and Falmouth Town, both of whom have tasted success in the competition over recent years.

As Truro City are in the National League South (step 2) they are unable to field a first team but can put a reserve squad into the competition.

A statement from the Cornwall FA said: “From the commencement of next season, the first teams of clubs competing at Step 4 and below in the NLS will be able to compete in this competition, with the reserve sides of clubs at Step 3 and above being able to enter, providing they are at Step 6.

“This is an historic change to the Senior Cup and reflects the changing face of football across our County as our clubs continue to enjoy success and we sincerely hope that it will be well received across the football community.”

Falmouth Town are the reigning holders of the competition after a last gasp 3-2 win in extra time over St Austell at Wendron United’s Underlane, thanks to strikes from Cameron Hutchinson, James Swan and Luke Barner.

In the previous year, Matt Cusack’s Helston Athleitc lifted the trophy with a 5-3 penalty shootout win after the sides had drawn 2-2 after extra time.

Cornwall FA’s Steve Carpenter, Chair of Competitions, welcomed the change. He said: “I'm delighted that agreement has been reached to amend the Senior Cup rules for next season to enable the likes of Mousehole FC, Helston Athletic and Falmouth Town to compete.

"Cornish football is undoubtedly on a high and it's only fair and reasonable to adjust our competition rules as the football landscape changes.

"As our premier competition it needs to include the best sides whilst at the same time bearing in mind the demands that playing at the higher levels bring as well as the rules that restrict the dates on which they can play.

"These changes do that, and I look forward to another highly competitive Senior Cup next season.”