THE HELLENIC League Premier will run with just 19 teams next season after Cheltenham Saracens were allowed to drop back down into Division One West.
Saracens finished second in Division One West last season and were promoted to the Step 5 Premier Division but wanted to reject promotion after manager Nick Locke and all his players departed.
The club thought they might have to drop a whopping nine tiers to play in the Cheltenham League Division Five but the Football Association and Hellenic League approved their request to remain in Division One West.
Hook Norton, who finished third behind Saracens last season, were offered promotion to the Premier Division but refused, meaning it will run with 19 teams next season.
Hellenic League chief executive officer Brian King said: “Other avenues have been explored that are within the remit of CR’s and the UHL Management without success.
“Therefore the Constitution of Divisions for Season 2016-2017 which will see the Premier Division reduced to 19 teams and One West – now 16 and One East 14.”
