Betteshanger Cricket Club captain Derek Towe is looking forward to leading his side into the Shepherd Neame Kent League for the first time next season.

The 55-year-old all-rounder, whose side clinched the Kent Feeder League title by beating Bobbing Court at the Welfare Ground on Saturday, said: "When we joined the Feeder League five years ago we said we had a five-year plan to get into the Kent League – and so we’ve achieved it just in time.

"But every club who wins the Kent Feeder League has to pass a pitch and ground inspection before they are promoted into the Kent League. An official from the Kent League came down to have a look at our ground on Friday, and now we are waiting to hear the outcome."

Towe, one of the most experienced players on the local cricket scene, added: "We are delighted to have won the league, but we have had to do it the hard way with some very tough matches. But we have got a terrific team spirit and, it must be said, some good skilful players as well."