Leek Town are Pitching In NPL Division One West champions and will play Step 3 football next season after a 16-year absence.
Having finished third twice and second in the last three completed seasons, the Staffordshire club went one better to secure the title with four matches remaining.
An Easter Monday 2-1 win at Newcastle Town, managed by former Leek boss Neil Baker, sparked wild scenes of celebration and relief as the Blues returned to Step 3 following relegation in 2008.
A 23-game unbeaten run saw Josh Brehaut’s side pull away, with 3-0 wins over challengers Runcorn Linnets and Prescot Cables in March speeding up their success.
“I’m delighted we’ve managed to produce a moment today for everyone associated with the club,” Brehaut told Moorlands Radio Sport, having overseen their first title win since 1997’s promotion to Step 1. “I really want to thank the board of directors who gave me this opportunity.
“We can move onwards and upwards and get ready for some big journeys next year.
“We’re really excited to attack what the future brings.”