HAUGHLEY United, current leaders of the Metaltec SIL Senior Division, have applied to join the Ridgeons League next season.They have paid a £75 ground inspection fee, and applied for grants to improve their changing rooms and erect new floodlights.

By Elvin King

HAUGHLEY United, current leaders of the Metaltec SIL Senior Division, have applied to join the Ridgeons League next season.

They have paid a £75 ground inspection fee, and applied for grants to improve their changing rooms and erect new floodlights.

Richard Friend, Haughley general manager said: “We are looking in the direction of the Ridgeons League, and believe it is the place to go. We were granted planning permission for floodlights a while ago when we thought about moving up.

“As far as we know they still stand, although we are seeking confirmation.

“The parish council has been very supportive and we are not anticipating any problems about fencing off the pitch and bringing our facilities up to Ridgeons League standard.”

Haughley, 12 points ahead of the third-placed team, must finish in the top three to be accepted into the Ridgeons First Division.

The other club to have made an application is Brantham Athletic, who are also members of the SIL.

They are equal third in the table, and have lights and a stand from when they were previously involved in the Ridgeons League.

While two teams could be moving into the Ridgeons League, Leiston could be moving out.

They have applied for a move up to step four football in 2007/8, although they are understood to need a top two Premier Division finish to be considered. They are currently third.

Current champions Lowestoft Town, in the midst of financial problems, have withdrawn their application.