WANTAGE Town are the Premier Division champions.

Last night’s 2-1 victory over second-placed Ardley saw Andy Wallbridge’s side secure the crown for the first time.

Goals from Tom Butler and Gavin Jones proved enough for victory and sparked joyous scenes for most of the 183 spectators – easily Wantage’s best gate of the season.

Both sides went into the game knowing the title was in their hands.

Victory for Wantage would ensure they finished top, but defeat would have seen Ardley take over and face a crunch clash with Slimbridge tomorrow which would have decided their fate.

But it was Wantage who prevailed as Ardley slipped to third in the table following Binfield’s 7-1 win over Wootton Bassett Town.

They took the lead when Butler latched onto a long clearance from Stuart Cattell, and with Ardley keeper Kurt Fox misjudging the ball, Butler tapped home.

But the lead lasted less than 60 seconds.

Straight from the kick-off Ardley’s Troy Bryan netted from close range to equalise.

There was little between the sides, but Wantage grabbed a crucial second goal on the stroke of half-time when Graham Edney pulled the ball across the box and Jones side-footed in from six yards.

A tense second half saw both sides create half-chances, but with time running out, it was the hosts who looked the stronger.

Wantage’s cause was not helped when Matt Biddle was sent off in last minute for a second booking.

But it did not matter as the final whistle went shortly afterwards – and the celebrations started.