BRIGHTLINGSEA REGENT chairman Terry Doherty says the club’s heroics this season have been “beyond his wildest dreams”.

And he has hailed the efforts of players, supporters and volunteers both on and off the pitch.

On it, Regent have shone in their first season in Ryman League division one north, having been promoted from last year’s Thurlow Nunn League.

They sit eighth and still have an outside chance of the play-offs, heading into tomorrow’s home match against Maldon and Tiptree.

Off it, a magnificent team effort has helped transform the club’s North Road ground and they hope to pass their final grading inspection on Tuesday lunchtime.

“It’s been a fantastic season - beyond our wildest dreams,” said Doherty.

“I never expected us to be where we are and thought it would be a case of battling to avoid relegation.

“But the management and players have been superb.

“They rise to every challenge put in front of them and we’re still in with a shout of the play-offs.

“I wouldn’t put it past the players because I know what they’re like.”

Off the pitch, Regent have already had two ground inspections - one with the Football Association and one with the Ryman League.

The third and final one is taking place next Tuesday, at 12.30pm.

The club believe they have met all the criteria, including a new covered terrace for 50 spectators, which was erected on Sunday.

The only issue is the temporary fencing around the pitch on two sides of the ground.

And in order for the club to pass, no spectators will be allowed access behind it for step four games.

This means the club are shutting the small gate at the north side of the ground by Kent Close.

The only way to access the stadium will be via North Road.

As a result, parking will be at a premium and this system will be in place for all remaining home games - starting tomorrow.

“A huge amount of work has taken place over the last month or so, to ensure our hard-fought status in the league is made safe,” added Doherty.

Over the summer, with the help of a grant, the club hope to replace the temporary fencing and re-open the rear entrance.

Meanwhile, Maldon boss Alan Kimble is expecting a tough match at North Road.

“Brightlingsea will be out to prove a point and be like a wounded animal (after losing 4-0 at Harlow on Saturday),” he said.

“They’re still in with a chance of the play-offs and we’ll have to go out there and be at our best.”