Maidstone have increased their playing budget by more than 20% to help them compete with big-spending rivals.

Margate are expected to have by far the largest wage bill in the Ryman League, Premier Division but they aren’t the only club with big ambitions.

United’s board of directors decided to act and have handed boss Jay Saunders a budget increase of 22%.

Stones chief executive Bill Williams believes it will be even tougher to win promotion this season, given the spending power of other clubs.

He said: “As a club, we live within our means but if we make a little profit along the way, we try to put a bit back. We felt we had a good year and it was time to increase the budget a little bit.

“It’s going to be a competitive league this year. We know Margate have put a lot of money into their side and they’ve set the benchmark.

“Lewes and Dulwich are doing the same and Kingstonian are investing, so there’s going to be a lot of clubs fighting for promotion.

“Without doubt, it will be harder to win the league this year. Last season was the one to get promoted.

“We look bigger, stronger and more experienced. It’s just tinkering with small areas that can make the difference.”