Having achieved their goal of Conference football, Aldershot Town are preparing for a massive celebration party against Hendon at the Recreation Ground tomorrow.

Terry Brown's men are due to receive the championship trophy in what will be their last home Ryman League game.

Aldershot's achievement has been applauded by Ernie Howe, manager of neighbouring Basingstoke.

He said: "I wouldn't say, deep down, that they've been the best side in the league when it comes to performances, but they've been consistent and you can't argue with that.

"On the games I saw, Canvey Island played the best football, but Aldershot have gone out and beaten them and nearly everyone else and it's that sort of consistency that wins you championships.

"I'll miss them because the derby games have been exciting, but Aldershot are too big a club to stay in this league."

Basingstoke could find themselves with a replacement derby if Glenn Cockerill's Woking lose their desperate battle for Conference survival at home to Telford tomorrow.

Howe has no added injury or suspension problems for tomorrow's visit of Heybridge Swifts to the Camrose Ground.