Boss Cliff Humphreys insists Wisbech will actually benefit from their London North-East Division Three relegation heartbreak.

That's the manager's brutal assesment of a disappointing season that has seen Wisbech drop down to Greene King Eastern Counties Division One for the first time since 2012. Despite beating Beccles on the final day – to give themselves a chance of staying up – an Old Brentwoods victory ruined the Harecroft Road club's chances of pulling off a great escape.

Humphreys said: 'We initially targeted a mid-table finish, unfortunately the defeats at home to Brentwood and Wanstead and the lacklustre draw at bottom club Canvey cost us 11 points.

'There were some memorable performances but in the end our squad of committed first-team players was too thin to compete at this level. Relegation to Eastern Counties One may be a blessing as it will allow us to regroup and work with a number of young players who have joined the club this season.'

The men in red have already turned their attentions to an immediate return by winning the championship that their rivals West Norfolk – who have swapped places with them in the pyramid – did this term.

Humphreys added: 'Personally I would like to thank Leonard (Veenendaal, coach) for his supreme efforts over the season. He worked tirelessly to prepare the squad each week. I know he will be disappointed that the club has been relegated but he is a proud man and he will relish the challenge to win back promotion next season.'