The new step 6 league in Kent is on course to start next season after two meetings of the steering group.

Set up by the Football Association, and including representatives from both the Safety Net Kent League and Vandanel Kent County League, the group has been charged with forming a step 6 league by the start of next season.

"This is excellent progress for Step 6," said Safety Net Kent League chairman Denise Richmond (pictured).

"The Kent League are looking forward to working with all interested clubs and the Kent County League for the future of senior football in this part of the country."

One of the key early decisions has been agreeing the ground grading for entry into the new step 6 league.

This is a revised version of grade G and clubs will be given four years to improve their grounds to meet the full grade G which is required nationally.

The next step is for the proposals to be put to the FA Leagues committee at the next meeting at the end of September.

If the proposals get the go-ahead then clubs in Kent, including those outside of the Kent County League, will be invited to register their interest in joining.

The steering committee is due to meet again at the start of October.