KENT’S Barry Bright emerged as one of the most powerful men in English football after his election as vice-chairman of the Football Association.

The 59-year-old from Cobham, near Gravesend, beat favourite Roger Burden 48-20 in the ballot at the FA’s summer meeting in Cambridge to succeed Norfolk’s retiring Ray Kiddel.

With FA chairman Geoff Thompson reaching retirement age in two years, Mr Bright finds himself in pole position to succeed him.

He said: "I was totally surprised by the margin of victory in the ballot. But I believe passionately in the development of grass-roots football and will make sure it has a voice at Soho Square."

Despite the increased work load, he will remain as KCFA chairman and managing director.