Eaton Socon have seen their hopes of promotion from the Cambs League top-flight dashed again due to the length of their pitch.

The club’s Mick George Stadium surface falls four metres short of the requirements for them to climb into Step 6 football.

Their plans to extend the pitch have been met with objections from local residents which has led to a failed Football Association ground grading.

Manager Mark Spavins said: “We have spent the best part of £7,000 on ground improvements and have a grant in place for floodlights, but unfortunately promotion won’t be happing.

“The pitch being four metres short is a big stumbling block. The occupants of houses behind the ground have objected and the council are dragging their heels with planning permission.

“It’s a massive blow for everyone connected to the club and we’ll have to review where we go from here.”

Spavins admitted his side’s performances on the pitch this season didn’t really justify promotion. They could only finish seventh in the Kershaw Premier Division, but did have the consolation of retaining the Hunts Intermediate Cup.

Brampton were the leading locals in third place while Hemingfords United finished in ninth spot after a fine run of form in the final weeks of the campaign.