Ledbury Rugby Club have escaped relegation from Midlands Three South (West) after Shipston-on-Stour admitted they played an unregistered player.

Ledbury finished second from bottom in the table with Shipston just one place above them. A ten point deduction means Shipston will find themselves in Midlands Four West (South) with basement club Droitwich.

As evidence was being gathered to prove that Shipston played an unregistered player against Hereford, who was sent off but gave the name of a registered player, the Warwickshire club put their hands up and admitted the offence.

It was Hereford's victory at Ledbury in the final game of the season that looked to have sealed their fate but now the Wyesiders have helped to save them.

Coach Rob Collins said: "Although Ledbury have stayed up by default, there is no doubt we deserve to be in this league. We had a tough season with a lot of lost games, having said that, losing margins were tight, the majority of the time only ever by one score. The quality of rugby we played is deserving of this league and higher. I am thrilled and excited for next season."

For the first time in Ledbury Rugby Club's 123-year history, a 'madam chair' has been elected.

The only one in the Midlands, and one of only a handful across the country, Jill Matthews has been involved with the club for eight years, firstly as press officer and for the last five years as secretary.

Jill said: "I am thrilled and honoured to be elected for this role. The committee and myself will be working on a number of initiatives to ensure Ledbury Rugby Club thrive through the coming season."

One of those initiatives is the recruitment of a director of rugby. Anyone who may be interested in this remunerated, part-time role, can contact Jill for an information pack on 07989 11237. Interviews will be taking place on June 8.