ADRIAN Scadding has expressed his relief after Bridport’s promotion to the Toolstation Western Premier Division was finally rubberstamped at the league’s AGM despite a last-gasp challenge from relegated Wellington.

The Bees finished third in Division One last season but were granted a spot in the top-flight after runners-up Oldland Abbotonians’ ground failed to reach the required standards – an outcome that was heavily disputed by the Wellies at last week’s meeting. Chairman Scadding said: “Wellington put forward a proposal saying that only one team should go up and one should go down.

“Whether they did that just because they finished second-bottom in the Premier Division I do not know but a ballot was held and the result was 44-6 in favour of keeping it two up, two down.

“I must admit my heart was pumping a little bit when the ballot was held as it could have gone either way.

“They only wanted it for this year and said it should be something that is revisited at the end of each season but the unanimous outcome has made that a no-no and kept everything straightforward.”

The draw for the opening stages of the Les Phillips Cup was also made at the meeting with Bridport drawing Odd Down in the first round.

The club have also organised another friendly against Plymouth Youth, which will take place at St Mary’s Field on July 26 (7.45pm).

Bees’ boss Trevor Senior said: “We start back on June 28 and everyone is looking forward to it.

"The first pre-season training session will take place that night at 6.30pm for a 6.45pm start and if there is anyone interested in coming along they are more than welcome.

“Alternatively, they can give me a call on 07771903795.”

Former loanee Sam Charles and ex-defender Gary McAuley are both expected to return for pre-season but Senior has played down rumours linking the club with goalkeeper Regan Coward, who is currently out of contract at Dorchester Town.

He said: “I have not spoken to Regan at all because if Sam Filkins is going to travel back each week, I am more than happy with him.”

Pre-season friendlies: July 9 (4pm) – Dorchester Tn (h); July 16 (3pm) – Bournemouth Poppies (h); July 23 (3pm) – Westland Spts (a); July 26 (7.30pm) – Plymouth Argyle Youth (h); July 30 (3pm) – Chickerell Utd (h); August 2 (7.30pm) – Exeter City Youth (h).