ST ASAPH City have managed to fulfil the Football Association of Wales’ new Tier 3 criteria for next season.

The Saints’ quest to meet the new regulations was plunged into significant doubt when floods decimated their base earlier this year, leaving their facilities and playing surface in need of considerable repair.

This resulted in a superb effort from the community to rally round the club, in addition to tireless work from volunteers during the clean-up process.

In order to secure their licence, City had to construct a new stand with seating, and this was another hurdle they managed to overcome despite social distancing measures ensuring a race against time.

The former Lock Stock Welsh Alliance Division One side are now expected to take their place in the new-look Tier 3 next season, which represents a considerable achievement from all involved.

Chairman John Hughes, who has spearheaded the work, said: “In light of the announcement regarding our Tier 3 accreditation, I would like to give a special mention to a few people that have worked with us throughout the process.

“Without the effort of these people who worked under the social distance guidelines during the lockdown we would not have been to achieve what we have.

“As a club we will be eternally grateful to North Wales Engineering Solutions, 360 Ground Care, Gary Williams, Andy Peach, Neil Cross, Mervyn Davies, Marvyn Davies, Mark Bowers, Iain Tait and Mick Dodd.”

Manager Daniel Brewerton, who can now begin improving his squad after what seemed like a long wait to secure the feat, hailed volunteers at the club and admitted getting up to specification was “touch and go” at one stage.