Brightlingsea Regent chairman Terry Doherty admits that he is ‘frightened’ of the prospect of Ryman Premier Division football next season.

After Saturday’s title-winning achievements, Regent have gone from the Step 7 Essex & Suffolk Border League to Step 3 football in seven seasons.

And proud chairman Doherty is and isn’t looking forward to next season’s challenge!

“I’m frightened,” chuckled Doherty. “But I’m frightened at the start of every season! Some of the teams in the Ryman Premier are absolutely massive. It’s going to be brilliant playing against the likes of Dulwich Hamlet and Billericay Town home and away.

“We will love it. The players will love it, the coaching staff will love it, and the fans will love it.

“We’ll just do our best, like we do every season, and see what we can do.

“Maybe we will surprise a few people too, who knows?”

Doherty was at the heart of the celebrations following Saturday’s title-winning achievements, embracing with the fans, players, coaches, and bar staff as Regent celebrated long into the night!

“I never thought we’d make the Ryman Premier,” continued Doherty.

“But then again, I never thought we’d make the Ryman North, the Thurlow Nunn Premier or the Thurlow Nunn First Division!

“I’m massively proud. It’s been a huge journey so far, and it’s great to still have a core group of players who have been with us from the Border League days.

“They’ve pushed us through under the brilliant guidance of James Webster, who has learned an awful lot growing through the leagues with us.

“James knows his football and has got some great coaches, players and backroom staff at the club. Angelo Harrop has been brilliant for us, as has Ryan Salter, and Chris Smith.”

Doherty also paid special tribute to the club’s fans, who were in fine voice during and after Saturday’s 4-1 home win over Romford, loudly applauding and celebrating the achievement.

“The fans were superb, and they have always been,” continued Doherty. “They’ve gathered in numbers, and they make a big difference for us. We’ve outnumbered and outsung lots of clubs away from home this season, and that’s brilliant.”