BRYAN HUGHES has welcomed being at home on the opening day of the season and he hopes to erase memories of one of his worst nights as Wrexham manager.

The Reds will begin a 12th campaign in non-league against Barrow at The Racecourse on Saturday August 3.

The corresponding fixture last term saw promotion-chasing Wrexham concede three goals before half-time as the Bluebirds triumphed 3-1 on a forgettable March night.

"It is a chance to blow that off our shoulders from last season," said Hughes.

"Under myself, that was probably one of our worst performances at home on that horrible night."

Wrexham have already sold more than 1,600 season tickets and Hughes is looking forward to a bumper crowd for the first game when he will be looking to start with three points.

"I was quite relaxed who we got," said Hughes. "It is going to be a long season.

"Fans will have their certain dates. There will be birthdays, the Christmas period and things like that.

"Obviously the opening day is the big one. A home fixture is important, it is always nice to play in front of your own fans on the first day of the season.

"I am pleased that has come out well for us.

"Season ticket sales are going really well and we have brought some good, exciting signings to the club. Hopefully we can have a good attendance against Barrow.

"These opening games can be a bit of a stalemate at times but we will be doing our best to try and win the game, and hopefully put on a good performance."

Four new signings - Devonte Redmond, Leighton McIntosh, JJ Hopper and Mark Harris - have already been brought in, with more additions to come, as Wrexham aim to mount another promotion challenge.

And although he wants to hit the ground running next month, Hughes knows Barrow, who have recruited a number of new player themselves including former Reds striker Scott Quigley, will be tricky opponents.

"Barrow is going to be a tough game," said Hughes.

"They have got their own qualities and they had a strong season last season.

"Their recruitment is going well this season too so it is going to be an exciting game.

"Another couple will come in, it is just about finalising the squad; we are not far off.

"We will build up in pre-season, get the work in the tank and get the lads fit for Barrow."

After facing Barrow, Wrexham have back to back away games at Boreham Wood (August 6) and Dover (August 10) before returning to The Racecourse to face Halifax Town (August 13).

The Bank Holiday fixture on Monday August 26 is away at Hartlepool United while Wrexham entertain newly promoted Chorley on Boxing Day and travel to the Magpies for the return fixture on New Year's Day, with an away fixture at Maidenhead United (December 28) pencilled in between.

The Easter fixtures are home to Hartlepool (Friday April 10) and away at Barnet (Monday April 13), followed by the final home match of the season against Notts County on April 18.

Wrexham will head to Stockport County on Saturday April 25 for the final game of the season.