PORTLAND United are back in the Wessex League after an absence of nearly a decade.

The Blues will take their place in Division One next term alongside the likes of Ringwood Town, United Services Portsmouth and Fleet Spurs.

Portland last played Wessex League football nine years ago when they finished bottom of the top flight.

“It’s obviously an exciting time for everyone at the club, and a lot of the players have been waiting a while for this,” said boss Gary Bailey.

“They have been loyal and waited to go up to the Wessex League with Portland United, and it’s a new challenge for them and me.

“I back the squad and I’m confident that we will go out there and give a good account of ourselves.

“It was time to branch out having been at the top of the Dorset Premier League for so long.”

He added: “Most of the lads have indicated they are keen to stay at the club.

“I might lose Charlie Holland to university but no-one has said they are definitely leaving.

“The last time the club played in the Wessex League the structure was very different, there was only one division back then.

“They did well for the first couple of seasons but then circumstances went against them and they decided to drop out.

“It’s a more gradual process this time and we’ll look to get a season or two in Division One under our belts first.”

Portland’s inclusion this time around originally depended on them upgrading their floodlights at Grove Corner by September.

However, they now have until March 31 next year to do that, meaning the islanders are guaranteed at least one season in the league.

The club will hear next week whether or not they have been successful in securing a Football Foundation grant to make the improvements that are required.

“We’re over the moon,” added Blues’ secretary Randle Gates. “Everyone at the club has worked really hard to get this.

“The lads deserve to go to the next level.”