Town merger targets the big-time

The clubs are hoping the merger will be the birth of a new era, and they are already looking ahead to challenging Sidley United's position as the top team in the town.

Bexhill United's first team will continue to play in the Sussex third division after Town avoided relegation on the last day of the season.

The second team will play in the Brewers East Sussex Premier Leauge, where AAC finished runners-up last year.

Former Town chairman Del Longley will have more time to concentrate on his playing career as he takes on the role of vice chairman. He said: "It can only be a good thing all round. They were top of their league which is only one division lower so their players are easily good enough to play at our level."

AAC's Dave Harris will be the first chairman of Bexhill United. He said: "We have a five year plan and our goal is to get into the First Division and bring back the old Bexhill glory days with the derbies against Sidley."

Bexhill United will be holding an open evening on June 24, 7pm, at The Polegrove for anyone who has any queries about the merger.