Ward learned of the FA's decision on Wednesday, and will be calling a meeting of club officials over the next few days to discuss the implications of the move (writes GAYE RYNSARD).

Following promotion to the newly-formed Step 4 division, the Blues have just completed their second season in Ryman League Division One North.

The Ram Meadow-based club finished their first campaign in mid-table before narrowly missing out on a play-off place at the end of last season.

"We are disappointed as a club as we have adapted to life in the Ryman League.

"Now, we are effectively faced with a different ball game and are having to start all over again," said Ward.

However, of more immediate concern is that the move will result in further miles and the club's budget will have to be adapted to cope with higher travelling expenses.

"I have worked out that our mileage will increase and that is not good news for any club," said Ward, who had already set the budget for next season.

Last season, the Blues travelled 1,408 miles for their away games, next season this will increase to 2,024.

Joining Town in the British Gas Southern League will be neighbours AFC Sudbury and newly-promoted Soham Town Rangers, who won the Ridgeons League title last season.

"It is not what we would have wanted but we have to take it on the chin and get on with it," said Ward.



NEEDHAM Market FC remained upbeat following the news from the FA yesterday that they had not secured promotion to step four in the football pyramid.

The Bloomfields-based club had hoped that a record-breaking season of two cup victories, a FA Vase semi-final run and runners-up spot in the Ridgeons League Premier Division would be enough to seal promotion.

Ultimately however, the Reds' title-deciding defeat against Soham Town on the final day of the season proved decisive.

Club chairman David Bugg said, "It is a shame, but we have enjoyed a very successful campaign."

Team manager Danny Laws said, "We are already planning for another promotion push next season."

Meanwhile, Laws has denied rumours linking him with the vacant AFC Sudbury managerial job.

Laws, who applied for the King's Marsh hotseat two years ago, said, "I cannot stress enough just how happy I am at Needham.

"Yes, I am ambitious, and yes I want to manage at a higher level, but I am confident I can achieve that with this club."