Champions! Southwick 1882 are on the way back

Their 5-1 win at Mile Oak ensures they win the Mid Sussex League Championship division and with it, promotion to the premier divisin.

It's a first - big - step on the way back to the National League System (NLS), which they had to quit when they were forced to leave their Old Barn Way home because of problems with the former leaseholder of the site.

Chairman Tony Kybett said: "We take their first step back into the National League System. Promotion to the Mid Sussex Premier League (NLS regional feeder league) has been achieved.

"The management team of Sammy Donnelly and Tony Gratwicke deserve all the credit as they have kept together a group of loyal players together in the most difficult of circumstances, and with one league game remaining they have a 100 per cent record.

"Everyone at the club has contributed to this first success. The youth section is expanding with additional teams, and a second adult team will be also be playing from next season.

"The support from the local community has been quite amazing and together with the Russell Martin Foundation the redevelopment of Old Barn Way will ensure the future for football in Southwick at all levels is looking bright."

Southwick hope to be playing back at Old Barn Way next season - and now they know it's step seven football they'll be playing when they're back home.

Football's coming home!