Conference officials decided the fate of several clubs, including that of arch-rivals Boston United – now managed by former Linnets boss Tommy Taylor – who have been demoted because of financial irregularities.

Subject to an FA appeal tomorrow, it has been confirmed that Halifax Town have been relegated from the Blue Square Premier, with Cambridge City falling from the Blue Square South division, and Nuneaton Borough and Boston United crashing out of the North.

Hucknall Town and Vauxhall Motors will remain in the Northern section due to Boston and Nuneaton's failings, while Dorchester regain South membership at the expense of Cambridge City.

Redditch United, who had been earmarked for a stint in the South (after four Northern clubs were demoted from the BSP) have now been re-instated in the North.

If the decision is finalised, the Linnets could be left without a proper local derby next season with Gainsborough the nearest opponents at just under 80 miles.

Linnets boss Keith Webb, who doesn't expect any more movement on the transfer front for a few days, said: "I'm 95 per cent certain we will be playing in the North section next season.

"After Wednesday's appeals by both Halifax and Boston United I'll know which part of the country I'll be channelling all of my energies into."

Meanwhile, it has been confirmed that eleven of last season's championship-winning squad have agreed terms for next season.

Scott Howie, Rob Murray, Ben Sedgemore, Ben Chapman, Greg Crane, Jack and Charlie Defty, Joe Francis, John Turner, Mark Camm and Andrew Fisk will all be signing on the dotted line shortly.

Negotiations are on going with further members of last season's team along with potential new signings.

The only players from last season not to commit to the club are Mark Warren, Matt Nolan and Danny Bloomfield.

One further friendly has been added to the list, a trip to Stamford on Saturday, July 26.

Steve Lilley has been appointed as the new reserve team manager and development coach.

Lilley has been involved in coaching for many years and last managed Downham Town in Ridgeons Division One.

• Lynn Res goalkeeper Duncan McAnally has signed for Wroxham.