Plans for Step 6 football in Kent next season continue to gather pace after a number of clubs expressed their interest.

A total of 28 clubs put themselves forward for the new league, which will aim to bridge the gap between the Safety Net Kent League and the Vandanel Kent County League at steps 5 and 7 respectively.

Clubs will now be inspected by independant FA representatives over the next two months before the steering group is due to meet again in early March.

Safety Net Kent League chairman Denise Richmond said: "It's another step along the process that will see this important addition to football in Kent and the surrounding areas.

"I think everyone is encouraged by the large interest shown in step 6 by the clubs.

"This was the first formal chance that they had to declare their interest and they seem to have taken it with both hands.

"There is still a strong will to make this league happen from all parties concerned."