BEWDLEY Town have taken the West Midlands League Division One South champions' shield - but look set to stay put at the same level.

The champions, in need of floodlights to progress to the Premier Division, were unable to secure a ground-share deal with Wyre Forest neighbours Stourport Swifts.

Despite other possible bases further afield, Bewdley have decided to remain at Ribbesford Meadows and intend to develop the ground, which they own, to the required standard.

The club were handed the league shield after Saturday's 3-2 home defeat to Bridgnorth Town Reserves when John Maffei and Keith Elliott scored.

Boss Craig Payton paid tribute to his assistants, his brother Wayne Payton and Paul Brothers, to secretary Mark Simms and all the players.

Bewdley were due to play their final league game at Ledbury Town Reserves last night before contesting the Tony Tranter Cup final tomorrow at Kinver (6.45pm).