BLUES BACK

STEVE SMITH says Bishop's Stortford's triumph has been years of hard work but the Blues owner-boss doesn't want them to stand still now.

- Matt Badcock

Smith's side celebrated the Isthmian Premier title in their clubhouse on Tuesday night after Canvey Island's 2-2 draw with Aveley confirmed their hold on top spot.

It sees their return to Step 2 after six years away including the two after they curtailed Covid seasons also missed out in the play-offs last season having finished as runners-up to Worthing.

And Smith hailed all the effort the club have put in to deliver their crowning glory.

"It's been three years of hard graft and after the disappointment of last year, to win it is pretty special," Smith told The NLP. "The lads deserve it. They've been brilliant. We've got a great set.

Exciting times