Winchester City have are looking ahead with confidence after winning promotion from the Wessex League at the third attempt.

Last Saturday's win at VT FC clinched the Wessex League title after disappointment at the end of each of the previous two campaigns. It enabled the club's loyal supporters to celebrate and relish the prospect of watching City play in a higher grade next season.

Ian Mancey's first half goal was enough to clinch the league title. The trophy will be presented at the final match against Bemerton at the Denplan City Ground on Saturday April 29.

And manager Steve Tate looks set to carry on after masterminding the success in an incredible unbeaten league run of 25 wins and three draws since he took over last October.

"The credit must go the players for all the hard work they've put in since I got here," he told me.

"It's been a fantastic run and I want to thank them and our supporters for making it such a memorable season. Everyone knows we've deserved what we've achieved and I think this young team can do well at a higher level, in whichever league that may be."

It's yet to be decided in which league City will operate next season, but the odds are that it'll be Divison 1 of the Ryman League - and that Tate will remain in charge, along with his assistant, Keith Williams.

"I'm 99 per cent certain that I'll still be here, but I need to talk it over with my wife and my employers," he said.

"There'll be a a lot more travel involved and a greater call on my time, so I need to put a few things in place.

"I've played for Havant and Weymouth in a higher grade and I know what's required in terms of time and commitment. But this move up will give everyone a boost and I can't wait to get started!"