EVESHAM United's appeal against the Football Association's decision to transfer them into Northern Premier League Division One South will be heard next Tuesday.

United had expected to stay in Southern League Division One South and West.

An Evesham spokesman said: "We are very grateful for the fantastic support we have received so far from other non-league clubs across the country on this matter. It is very much appreciated."

United were moved after champions Cinderford Town refused promotion due to financial reasons.

Evesham's Gloucestershire-based manager Paul Collicutt said: “My reaction was one of shock.

“But my main concern at the minute is my players and the thing I have got to ensure to them is I have every intention of staying at Evesham.

“There are a lot of negatives from this decision. But I have to try to be as positive as I can with the club, supporters and players.”

Collicutt understands Evesham would have to travel a further 50 miles next term and admits they are preparing to go “into the unknown”.

“The bulk of the team are from around the Evesham, Cheltenham and Gloucester area,” he added.

“We have got a few lads who travel from Swindon and from Wales and they would probably be the ones who are more of a concern on the travelling aspect.

“It does seem unfair as the club were looking forward to this season, especially with the likes of Salisbury and Hereford coming into the league, and we have had two reasonably successful seasons.

“It is a league I have never played or managed in as my strengths are over in the south-west, where I have spent an awful lot of time, so it is a case of going into the unknown.”

Forward Adam Mann won both United's manager's and fans' player of the year awards.

Will Wellon was players' player of the year and Pat Wright claimed the club person accolade.

EVESHAM'S POTENTIAL NPL DIVISION ONE SOUTH OPPONENTS

AFC Rushden & Diamonds, Basford United, Bedworth United, Belper Town, Carlton Town, Chasetown, Gresley, Kidsgrove Athletic, Leek Town, Lincoln United, Loughborough Dynamo, Market Drayton Town, Newcastle Town, Northwich Victoria, Romulus, Rugby Town, Sheffield, Shaw Lane Aquaforce, Spalding United, Stamford, Stocksbridge Park Steels, Witton Albion.