TIME is running out for clubs to officially tender applications for promotion to the Spar Mid Wales League.
The top two finishers from the Montgomeryshire League as well as the Mid Wales League (South), Aberystwyth League and Cardiganshire League will be eligible, subject to applying by the December 31 deadline and meeting ground criteria.
“The Spar Mid Wales League expansion to two tiers has been a great success,” said secretary Phil Woosnam. “Montgomery Town have gone from second division champions to challenging for first division honours in a season, while Knighton Town’s success in their first season in the second division should be encouraging to aspiring clubs.”
Should no Mid Wales club be relegated from the Huws Gray Alliance, and the first division champions are promoted, there will be no relegation, while the top two clubs from the second division will be promoted.
“In this case no club would be relegated from division two of the Spar Mid Wales League unless we had more than two promotion applicants, which meet all required criteria,” explained Woosnam.
Criteria for membership of the second division includes separate dug-outs, fenced playing area, shower facilities and separate changing faculties for match officials.
Montgomeryshire League side Bettws are the only Montgomeryshire League side to so far express an interest.
“We would be interested in Spar Division Two,” said manager Mike Clare. “We have a really good side now and a few players already have experience at that level.”
Former Spar Mid Wales League side Hay St Marys are one of the few eligible sides to be in a position to challenge in Mid Wales League (South) while Penybont also boast suitable facilities.
Llanilar, Borth United and former members Padarn United represent the best of the Aberystwyth League.