Gillingham and Charlton Athletic are to return to the Kent Senior Cup next season.

Kent FA chief executive Paul Dolan, appointed in February, regards the inclusion of the two Football League clubs as a significant step in raising the profile of the competition.

Mr Dolan (pictured) said: “This is a very exciting time for the Kent Senior Cup.

"Bringing back the magic to Kent’s oldest football tournament and raising its profile was high on my agenda when I took over as chief executive of the Kent FA.

"When Gillingham and Charlton dropped out several years ago the cup seemed to become less important to the county’s senior clubs. With the return of these two top teams I hope crowds will return to watch games in the competition next season.”

An official announcement will take place at this year’s Senior Cup final between Dartford and Bromley at Princes Park on Monday, May 2.

Gillingham manager Andy Hessenthaler and representatives from Charlton Athletic will join Kent FA Chairman Barry Bright on the pitch to be officially welcomed back into the cup.