After two years of meetings and negotiations between The Football Association, The Football League and The Football Conference, this weekend finally saw the increase in promotion and relegation from 1 to 2 places between the Football League and Football Conference ratified by the 72 Football League members at their annual AGM.

F.A. Chief Executive Adam Crozier and F.A. Director of the National Game Division, Steve Parkin have been particularly involved for The F.A. in enabling an additional place to be opened up for Conference clubs to progress into the Football League, further strengthening the links from the top of the National Leagues System to the Football League.

Speaking from England's Awaji Island World Cup base, Crozier said: "We are happy that the great effort that The F.A. has put into this process has paid off.

"This is good news for English football at all levels and it's a real bonus for fair play too. A lot of hard work from a lot of different people has gone into making this happen and we're delighted to have been able to help bring about this change."

The F.A. National Game Division is charged with covering The F.A.'s involvement in all football in England below the Football League, leading the development of grassroots football and increasing the quantity, quality and enjoyment of participation.

National Game Director Steve Parkin said: "The Football Association has a responsibility to support all levels of the game and fully supported the need to have a more open promotion and relegation system between the two respective leagues.

"After very positive discussions I am delighted that the Football League members have voted for '2 Up, 2 Down'. This forms the first part of a long-term restructuring for the National Leagues System."

John Moules, Chief Executive of The Football Conference said: "I am naturally delighted that from next season two of our clubs will have the opportunity to gain promotion into The Football League, and cannot wait for the new season to start.

"For the supporters of Conference clubs and clubs across the country, this landmark decision brings their dreams to fruition. I would like to thank Adam Crozier, Steve Parkin and Peter Heard of The Football League who have worked tirelessly over the last 12 months to make this happen.

"Over the past two-three seasons, supporters around the country have seen through our clubs F.A. Cup exploits, just how far standards of players and facilities have improved, and along with future F.A. plans for the restructuring of the National Leagues System, this past weekend saw a whole new avenue of opportunity opened up for players in English football."

Alex Stone