THE Hampshire League have come to terms with news that the Wessex League plan to expand into a second division.

Although the county set-up are in danger of losing several of their top clubs when the new division is launched in 2004-5, they concede that the growth of the Wessex was inevitable after several years of speculation.

Hampshire officials have, however, cast doubts over the benefits of their Premier clubs playing at a costlier level and, even if the county league do sustain casualties, they are confident they can remain a force to be reckoned with.

The Hampshire League are calling all their Premier Division clubs together for a meeting at the Eastpoint Centre in Bitterne tomorrow night (Wednesday, May 21, 7pm) to discuss the possible repercussions.

In the meantime, they have issued the following statement: "The Hampshire Football League welcome the move by the Wessex League to find out whether there is an appetite amongst clubs to form a second division of their league.

"This is a cloud of uncertainty which has hung over football for too long and, to have this settled, will allow everyone to move on.

"The Hampshire League obviously hope that its eligible clubs will all remain in its Premier Division rather than re-form as a second division of a much higher cost league.

"It is difficult to see any benefits they would obtain.

"However, if some clubs decide to make the move, the league is confident in the playing ability and organisation of its first division clubs so that its competition will not be severely weakened.

"Several clubs have development plans which will allow a full-strength Premier Division to continue.

"The league expects to set out its plans to clubs over the next week."

According to Alf Peckham (above), the force behind the Wessex League expansion, joining the new second division now would simply hasten the inevitable for those clubs ambitious to climb the Pyramid.

He pointed out: "After 2004-5 clubs will come into our Division 2 in any case if they win whatever league is in our part of the Pyramid. They've got the opportunity to take it now or not - it's up to them.

Peckham, meanwhile, has confirmed the ground grading required to get into the new second division.

Two or three sides of hard standing and a fixed barrier right round the pitch

Floodlights with a lux value of 90-plus

Covered accommodation for 50 people - standing or seated

Dug-outs

Separate changing rooms with separate showers, if possible

Adequate-sized referees' changing room with shower and toilet

Tea bar for spectators

Accommodation for committee members, preferably a clubhouse.

Public toilets

Tannoy system or a board for team changes

Gate takings

Any clubs considering joining the new Wessex Division 2 should get in touch with Alf Peckham, the immediate past president, on 023 8086 8620 or acting secretary Denis Emery on 01794 500696.

The league will send representatives out to chat to any interested clubs and give advice where necessary.