Bicester manager Mike Hutchinson said fitness was the key as they secured promotion to Southern Counties North.

Saturday's 37-3 victory at Abingdon sealed Bicester's passage after three seasons in the BB&O Premier Division - and they have not lost in the league since December.

Hutchinson said: "We are extremely pleased. The players have worked really hard for this.

"The key fact has been the fitness levels.

"We knew the hardest part would be after Christmas, but their fitness has shone through.

"The number of tries we've conceded compared with those we've scored has been excellent.

"A lot of the credit must go to James Shields, who has been taking the conditioning training on Tuesdays.

"We have been missing a main coach this season, so they have done this off their own backs. To get promotion is oustanding.

"We are already working on recruiting a coach for next year from within the club."

Bicester's final two matches are at home to Swindon College on April 12 and away to Phoenix on April 19.

Hutchinson said: "We've not taken our foot off the gas yet. We want to finish with two more wins.

"We've been building the team for the past two seasons. That's why they have gelled this year.

"All we need to do for next season is develop a little bit.

"We are not looking to be a flash in the pan when we go up, but aim to finish at least in the top half."