Bishops Castle Town's battle to compete in Mid Wales football is finally at an end after the football authorities granted them permission to begin their season.

All summer, and into the early part of the campaign, the club have been fighting to re-gain their place in Mid Wales football, where they have previously played for 20 years.

After success in having permission granted by the Shropshire FA, a stumbling block came in recent weeks when the Football Association of Wales (FAW) blocked the move.

However a spokesperson for the FAW told the Powys County Times that permission had been granted for one season, and the border club can now get their season up and running.

Clubman Lee Davies was delighted by the news, and pleased that common sense had prevailed.

He said: “It is fantastic news for the club, everyone here is delighted by the decision.

“It has been a battle for local football, and simply for lads to just play recreational football, and it has been ridiculous really.

“Common sense has prevailed in this one, and we can get down to playing now because everyone is raring to go.”

Cross border football has been a hot topic in recent seasons, with the likes of Bucknell, Morda United and Trefonen all seeking football just miles over the Welsh border.

Mr Davies believes with the club now continuing after being on the brink of extinction, the community will benefit.

He added: “When we were in the Shropshire league, going to Telford, people lost interest in things.

“Whereas now we are playing locally, we have kept the majority of the squad, and the community will benefit.

“We will still use the artificial surface we have, which we wouldn’t have used at all if we had folded.”

The clubman also saved special thanks to people who have helped the club in their fight to continue playing, including their fellow clubs.

He said: “Everyone’s support has been so good, and it was when we were put in touch with Phil Pritchard on the FAW that really helped.

“He has put a bit of common sense into it and pushed it through.

“The support from the clubs has been fantastic, and has helped us through, because without that we might not have carried on fighting.

“And also to the County Times, and Gavin Grosvenor the sports editor who has fought our corner and highlighted what has been going on, and been very supportive of the club as we looked to get back into Mid Wales football.”

A spokesperson for the FAW confirmed Bishop’s Castle were accepted by officers, but will have to apply to the FA and FAW again next season.

Bernie Jones, Montgomeryshire Amateur League secretary added: “It is absolutely fantastic news they are in and can begin playing.

“Phil Pritchard seems to have done some good work to help them into the league, and it is very, very nice to see him supporting local football in the area.”