DROITWICH Spa have been denied promotion to Midland Football League Division One after being stripped of their title triumph.

Spa were deducted three points by the league for fielding an ineligible player and failed to get the decision overturned at a Football Association appeals hearing.

The reduction meant the table-topping King George's Playing Fields side dropped to third in Division Two outside of the promotion places behind newly-crowned champions Paget Rangers and runners-up Alvis Sporting.

It is believed Spa were punished for playing Max Crisp in three fixtures when the league said the midfielder should have been banned after he was sent off in a 4-0 win at Bloxwich Town in January.

A Spa statement issued by chairman Peter Lemon said: "Following an appeals hearing at the FA we are deeply disappointed to inform our many loyal supporters and fans the club have been deducted three points by the Midland Football League.

"As a result we will now finish third in Division Two behind Paget Rangers and Alvis Sporting and miss out on a promotion place.

"This is extremely disappointing for everyone at the club from the players, management and committee as well as our committed volunteers who have continued to work tirelessly once again over the course of the season.

"We thank all our supporters and sponsors for their support over the season which has been nothing but extraordinary.

"The club are currently considering our options for the 2017-18 season and will issue an update in due course."

A Midland League statement said: "Droitwich Spa FC were charged with playing an ineligible player in their fixtures on February 11, 18 and 25.

"After the conclusion of their appeal they have been found guilty of the offences and as a result are to have three points deducted from their playing record.

"The Division Two table has been adjusted with Paget Rangers now champions and Alvis Sporting Club promoted in second place."