COLWYN Bay FC manager Craig Hogg outlined his excitement after the club were granted tier two status for their Welsh domestic return next season.

The Seagulls’ boss has masterminded a fine turnaround at the club since replacing Alan Morgan, building a confident young squad that have been on a fine run of form since the turn of the year.

They will now go in search of promotion to the JD Welsh Premier League at the first time of asking, and Hogg stated he is relishing the challenge of coming up against some of the region’s most high-profile sides.

He said; “We are very pleased to have been allocated a place in Tier Two next season and we look forward to the challenge ahead.

“We will be entering a fiercely competitive level in the FAW Pyramid and nothing will be taken for granted what so ever. The planning has started and more hard work will follow in the weeks ahead.

“There are some excellent clubs, players, managers and coaches in Tier Two and I know exactly how tough a challenge we face.

“Everyone will be shown the upmost respect and I aim to field a team that will add and bring much value and enjoyment to those who follow Welsh domestic football.

“The road map is now clear for our club and we re-join Welsh football with so much excitement.

“But we have seven games to go in the NPL and aim to finish as high within the top 10 as we can. Again, nothing changes for our dressing room.”

The Seagulls have some mouth-watering derby clashes in the offing next term against the likes of Rhyl, Prestatyn Town, Conwy Borough and Bangor City, with Llandudno’s impending relegation from the top flight set to bring with it another landmark clash not seen in a competitive environment for decades.