BEWDLEY Town boss Craig Payton graciously conceded that "the best team won" after seeing his team pipped to the West Midlands League division one title by Great Wyrley.

A thrilling campaign came down to a championship shoot-out between Bewdley and Great Wyrley at Ribbesford Meadows last week.

But the occasion seemed to get the better of Payton's men as they suffered a 3-1 defeat - despite Lewis Pountney's 38th goal of the season.

"We didn't play very well and in fairness the best team won, both on the day and over the course of the season," said the boss.

"The difference between them and us is that they can afford to pay their players but they're a great team and they deserve the title.

"We're just glad to have won promotion because we were only aiming for top six so it's a great achievement and the lads have given everything."

Bewdley were still suffering a hangover from the title decider when they slipped to a 1-0 defeat - only their fourth setback of the season - at Darlaston on Saturday.

On a bobbly pitch, Bewdley failed to get going with Payton admittting his players had lost their edge with nothing left to play for.

Meanwhile, the club are hoping to announce a groundshare for next season - their first year in the West Midlands League premier division.

While work is carried out to erect floodlights at their own home, Bewdley plan to lodge at a neighbouring club to meet the league's stadium criteria.

Chaddesley Corbett boss Meanwhile, Westcott has heaped praise on Chaddesley's rivals Bewdley's for gaining promotion. In a letter to the Shuttle/Times & News, Westcott offered his congratulations to the Ribbesford Meadows men.

He said: "A few years ago Wyre Forest FC were a very successful side that were denied the opportunity to progress through the lack of suitable ground facilities.

"I sincerely hope that this time Bewdley Town can fulfill their richly earned dream of playing higher standard football.

"I do not think enough recognition has been given to junior football in the Wyre Forest area.

We are blessed with two excellently run leagues, the Kidderminster and District and the Stourport Boys leagues and a lot of people locally encourage footballers to play their favourite sport by managing, coaching and officiating.

"Clubs such as Bewdley and Wyre Forest have given aspiring local youngsters the chance to play a good standard of football. Let's be proud of our local football scene and encourage clubs like Bewdley Town to progress."