The FA has confirmed that Congleton Town have been granted their appeal over lateral move to the Midlands Football League and will remain in the North West Counties League Premier Division at Step Five for the 2021-22 season.

Alongside fellow NWCFL sides Hanley Town and Whitchurch Alport, the Bears looked set to compete in the Midlands Football League Premier Division from next season, which would have resulted in an average away trip of 56 miles, each way.

However, the FA granted the Bears' appeal, and they can now look forward to a clash with Macclesfield FC next season, who have been placed straight into the North West Counties League Premier Division.