WHITEHAWK CHAMPIONS OF THE RYMAN PREMIER DIVISION

Wealdstone's 0-0 draw at home to Lowestoft Town last night handed the Ryman Premier Division title to Whitehawk. The Hawks now continue their rapid rise up the football pyramid as only as recently as 2009/10 they were members of the Sussex County League Premier Division (Step 5) playing against club's such as Wick, Shoreham and Pagham. Next season they will be members of the Conference South Division which will be the same level at Stockport County who will play in the Conference North Division.

This is a great example of how amazing (and not so amazing for County fans) the English football pyramid is as in the same 2009/10 season Stockport County were members of League One and played Norwich City and Southampton whom are now members of the Premier League.

Many people knock The Hawks for the unconfirmed rumours of the playing budget they have had but it has to be said money doesn't always win leagues! Hard work, team spirit and determination also plays a huge factor so TheColdEnd sends congratulations to manager Darren Freeman and his team on their achievement.

Whitehawk appear to have a tough job on their hands as last season's Ryman Premier Champions Billericay Town and play-off winner's AFC Hornchurch were both relegated back down after only a one season stay at Step 2 level. The fact the 2010 play-off winners Tonbridge Angels are just above the drop-zone is a another indication of how tough the league is.

The play-off places will be made up of Lowestoft Town, Wealdstone, Concord Rangers and one of either East Thurrock United, Metropolitan Police or Canvey Island. If East Thurrock United win at home against Hastings United on Thursday it will all but mathematically secure their place.

News about the race to beat the drop coming up.