As previously advised, and in accordance with the expressed wishes of its clubs, the League committee decided to merge 1st XI and Open Leagues (save at 1st XI Premier 1 level).

After considerable work and consultation the League is pleased to set out a document which shows how it is intended that this will be achieved at the end of the coming season, 2008/2009.

Put simply, finishing positions at the end of next season will determine in which merged division a team will play the next season, 2009/2010. (Subject to no more than two teams from one club being allowed in the same division)

Consequently there will be no play-offs at the end of next season, although placings are still subject to the variables caused by numbers, if any, relegated from the national league and not known until the end of next season.

The schedules show by way of example what would have happened based on the finishing positions of teams at the end of last season (disregarding play-offs).

The will be updated during next season to reflect reality then.

It is subject to any necessary changes that may be required by other factors, such as club mergers.

The League is grateful for the close co-operation of the allied County Open Leagues.

It is recognised that there may initially be some imbalances in the merged league, although hopefully not. If there should be, normal promotions and relegations should sort them out shortly.

All in all, the merger should make for a challenging 2008/2009 season leading to an exciting 2009/2010 season to which we can all look forward.