Uhlsport Hellenic League Premier Division leaders Wantage Town have been dealt a blow after it emerged that their ground has failed a Southern League inspection.

It means that irrespective of where they finish, Wantage, who lead second-placed Ardley United by a point, will be unable to gain promotion into the Zamaretto Southern League for next season.

There had been concerns that Wantage’s Alfredian Park may not make the grade because of the need for a boundary fence to enclose the ground.

Wantage’s ground is in an area of outstanding natural beauty, and the club did not have planning permission to erect a six-foot high fence.

At the time of the application, Town chairman Tony Woodward explained: “The view from the Ridgeway into Wantage envelops the ground, and the planners had told us they would object to a fully-boarded fence.

“The FA had suggested that it wouldn’t be a problem, but sadly, the requirement for the boundary fence was the problem in the end.”

Woodward added: “We’re obviously very disappointed, but we need to take it on the chin and move on.

“We will need some time, as it’s obviously a major planning issue we will need to address.

“It’s been an ambition of ours for some time to take that next step, but it doesn’t come easily.

“Winning the league in itself would be an achievement, and taking the longer-term view, people remain happy to get behind this club and have another go.

“We are very content with what has been achieved already.”

Wantage boss Andy Wallbridge is determined not to let the bad news derail their title challenge.

“It was a massive blow. The players are disappointed, but I think it’s gelled us even more to try and win the league.

“The ironic thing is that I’m a fencer by trade, so I could have done the job for them!

“From my point of view, I would love to win the league even more now, just to prove a point.

“It will hopefully hit home that we are a club capable of playing at a higher level.

“Hopefully the powers that be will make sure that everything is in place in good time next season.”