The Conference chairman has agreed to visit the Gallagher Stadium to discuss Maidstone’s 3G campaign.

Brian Lee is set to hold talks with the club next month as Stones fight for a rule change that would allow them to play in the Conference should they win promotion.

Stones lead the Ryman League, Premier Division but under current rules would be denied a place in Skrill South due to their artificial pitch.

The club said in a statement: “Most recently the chairman of the Conference has written to inform us that our 3G pitch would not be authorised at present in the Conference and that we would need a rule change at the AGM in June to be able to play on 3G.

“In fact, according to Conference rules, we thought that a simple board decision would suffice but it appears the Conference chairman is unwilling to put the matter to his board.

“What is clear is that he does not wish to move on the question of allowing 3G in the Conference right now.

“We may be able to find out more about his reasoning in November when he is due to visit the Gallagher Stadium for a debate with us on these very 3G issues.”

Stones boss Jay Saunders is backing co-owners Oliver Ash and Terry Casey to win their campaign and said: "The issue has come up earlier than expected because of where we find ourselves in the league and Oliver wants to get the ball rolling.

“It’s crazy to think we couldn’t go up but I’m sure it will get sorted out."