THE FA Vase wait is nearly over for Brightlingsea Regent.

They are busy putting the finishing touches to their preparations for today’s fourth-round ties.

Regent have an intriguing date at home to reigning South West Peninsula League champions Bodmin Town.

Regent will be hoping to cement their place in the last 16 and move another step closer to the final at Wembley Stadium.

“I can’t wait for it to come now,” said Brightlingsea boss James Webster who is sweating on the fitness of key defender Kevin Hughes.

“We just want to get on with it.

“We haven’t done anything differently this week.

“I wanted to keep things as normal and low-key as possible and not build it up too much.

“The players already know how big a game it is but I don’t want them to be over-awed by the occasion.”

The Bodmin squad were due to start their journey early yesterday afternoon.

Webster and his assistant, Tom Rothery, know all too well how long a trek they face as they recently went on a scouting trip to watch their Cornish opponents.

“We wanted to see them play so drove down there last week,” said Webster. “It took us six hours but it was worth it. They beat the bottom-of-the-table side 6-1.

“They looked good and are a big, physical side.

“We know it’s going to be a tough game but I’m confident we can cause them problems.”

Long-serving Regent chairman Terry Doherty is savouring the occasion and hopeful of a record crowd at North Road.

“Without a doubt, it’s the biggest game in our history,” he said.

“Win, lose or draw, it’s going to be a fantastic day and if you can’t enjoy occasions like this then you shouldn’t be in football.”