Rainworth Miners Welfare boss Rudy Funk has paid tribute to the NCEL as his club prepares for the move up to the Evo-Stik League.

He was full of praise to all concerned, but especially to champions Bridlington Town, whose decision not to accept the step up cleared the way for the Wrens.

Said Funk: "I must first of all say a massive thank-you to Bridlington who played a big part in what we achieved this season - not just because of the points they took from our closest rivals in the final weeks, but because throughout most of the season we have been neck and neck with them, along with Armthorpe, and made it a tremendous contest.

To top it off Bridlington became champions and we were runners-up, and after they declined promotion our own battle started.

"I'm absolutely delighted and proud for the lads because every single point they earned was vital in getting us up in the points per game stakes for runners-up clubs. The points they gained ensured that we finished highest of the three runners-up competing for two promotion places.

"Looking back on our stay in the NCEL I would like to say a big thank you to every single club, in both divisions. I'm hugely impressed by what I have seen on the field and behind the scenes at various clubs within the league.

"The NCEL is a very tough league, and that includes Division One as well as the Premier Division.

"I've learned so many things. I've learned that many clubs have some fantastic people who work extremely hard behind the scenes. When I look at different sides I can see great potential.

"I can't go through and highlight every club, but just as an example let's take Brighouse Town. Since we played them in Division One I've been back there a few times and have been impressed by the way they play their football, and the way they behave as a club.

"Another club which springs to mind is Staveley. I have enormous respect for what Terry Damms has done there. He's not just built a team there, he's built a very good club.

"And at my former club Teversal I can see the new management there taking them forward.

"In the Premier Division, look at the Armthorpes, Thackleys , Long Eatons, they are all just wonderful clubs, and to play in a league alongside the likes of Scarborough and Bridlington makes it a real mouth-watering competition.

"I'd also like to praise the chairman and officials of the NCEL, and everyone who has been involved , and every other club who has made us so welcome as we have gone around the league in these last three years. It all helps to make it such a wonderful football league.

"I hope we will fly the NCEL flag with pride in our new league, as so many other clubs before us have done in the past.

"Many thanks to each and every one of you."