ASHFoRD & DISTRICT SaTURDaY LeagUe

Three new clubs will feature in the Ashford Saturday League this season in a slimmed down competition.

The constitution confirmed at last week’s annual meeting, sees 14 clubs in two divisions, with the league’s management committee still to decide what happens in the second half of the 2017/18 campaign to compensate for a reduction in fixtures.

Former members Charing return, placed in Division 1, following their switch from the Canterbury & District League. They are joined by Marsh Youth, an under-21 side based at Marsh Academy, and Towers View – who both start in Division 2.

Bromley Green and Tenterden Town have both left the competition after being re-elected into the Kent County League, although the latter will continue to field a reserve team.

AFC Ashford Athletic Reserves have also dropped out, following a move to the Maidstone & District League, replacing the first team, following their move to the County League.

Ashford Dynamo have returned to Sunday League football after one season, Wittersham have rejoined the East Sussex League, while Three Mariners have quit, having struggled to field teams last season.

Kennington Reserves received the Sportsmen Trophy, with Smarden’s Dave Law winning the players’ player- of-the-year award and golden boot, having been league top scorer with 17 goals.

The trophy was donated to the league by vice-chairman John Ralph, with Laws receiving a replica as a personal memento.

The new season starts on Saturday, September 9.

Charing, Folkestone Invicta Disability, Hythe Grovellers, Kennington Reserves, Smarden, Tenterden Town Reserves, Woodchurch.

Biddenden, Lydd Town 3rds, Marsh Youth, Rolvenden Reserves, Smeeth & Brabourne, South Willesborough Warriors, Towers View.

Dave Laws presented with his trophies by league vicechairman John Ralph

Picture: Steve Crispe Gary Lockyer – has returned to Lydd from Hollands & Blair