AMERSHAM Town have won promotion to the first division of the Minerva Spartan South Midlands League without kicking a ball.

The side actually finished next to bottom of Division Two but earned their promotion because of a new ruling saying all first division clubs must have floodlights.

Chairman David Holdcroft said: "As a result the league were short of teams and we are in the fortunate position of having good lights.

"Steve Cogdell, our vice chairman, who represented Town at the league AGM, argued strongly that we should therefore be promoted.

"He stressed that we now have a very strong management team in place under Ted Gromnicki and are recruiting good players. The issue was put to a vote of all the clubs and we were successful.

"We're all very pleased. We realise it will be a challenge but we have great confidence in Ted and his players."

Gromnicki said: "We're all up for this. "The club has thrived over the last few years but for too long the first team has not pulled its weight.

"It won't be easy in the higher division but we'll really give it a go. It will also be good to play at better grounds and we hope to attract better players as a result."

Amersham entertain Rayners Lane at Spratleys Meadow tomorrow. Anyone wanting a trial with Amersham can contact Gromnicki on 07979 516970 or turn up for training at Spratleys Meadow at 8pm on Tuesday or Thursday evenings.