Thetford Town’s hopes of promotion from the Thurlow Nunn Premier League have suffered a major blow.

Thetford were scheduled to play Newmarket Town in the play-off final this Saturday.

But they have been thrown out of the competition for fielding an ineligible player and their place will now be taken by Mulbarton Wanderers, who they beat 2-0 in last weekend’s semi-final clash.

In a statement on their official website, Thetford Town said: “To keep our fans up to date we must unfortunately announce that following a Thurlow Nunn League hearing Thetford Town FC have been found guilty of playing a suspended player and removed from the Premier League play-off final. As things stand, Mulbarton Wanderers FC will be taking our place.

“After seeking advice, we can also confirm Thetford Town are appealing the league’s decision with the Football Association based on the overwhelming evidence that proves conclusively neither the player or the club were made aware of the suspension and had no reasonable means of knowing.

“At this time, we will refrain from any further comment until the appeal process has reached its conclusion, but would ask that in the meantime thoughts are spared for the pain and torment which will be affecting our players and supporters in light of this unwelcome news.”