SLOWLY the fog is lifting and the future is becoming clear for the hundreds of junior clubs.

A blueprint from the Midlands leagues' organising committee has revealed how the divisions could look at the start of next season.

They have revealed a plan based upon league standings at the end of December and, contrary to the laboured machinations at the top of the game, they make good sense.

First the long-term aim of home and away leagues has finally been achieved which is overdue.

The regionalisation of certain leagues will also cut down on travel and expense for clubs who do not have cash to spare.

It is most notable from the old Midlands Two so journeys from the likes of Luctonians to Luton should become a thing of the past.

An argument flouted by some is that they are playing for nothing, that there will be no promotion but a quick scan of the new leagues shows teams finishing at the top of their leagues will be rewarded.

Droitwich are the perfect example, they are on course to take the North Midlands One title and in so doing will play the likes of Bridgnorth, Old Saltleians and Ludlow next season.

Struggling clubs face the drop but after years with some divisions going stale due to relegation limited to just one team there can be no complaints.

The only shortcoming seems to be in the new look North Midlands leagues which look too big, with 12 teams each, and will certainly plenty of mis-matches.

Better to have a North Midlands One, eith the top ten, followed by North Midlands Two North and South.

This may come by September and overall the plans should be welcomed but then the tinkering should stop.

and importantly left to settle down.

Thursday, February 3, 2000.