RUGBY Town have accepted a reprieve from relegation and will remain in the Northern Premier League Midlands next season.
The FA handed Valley a reprieve after NPL Midlands club Hinckley Leicester Road withdrew from the division after entering voluntary liquidation.
This created a vacancy at Step Four which Rugby will fill despite suffering relegation last term.
After assessing the options available, the FA’s Step One to Four operational committee offered the vacant spot to Valley, as the highest-placed relegated side from the division.
Rugby director, Neil Melvin said: “We’re delighted to have been given the chance to remain at this level and thank the NPL and the FA Committee for their swift and pragmatic approach.
“The situation has developed quickly but we’re confident we have the people in place to adapt and build a competitive squad for the NPL Midlands.
“It’s a surprise and a welcome lift after the disappointment of last season and we now move forward with real focus and ambition.”
The FA initially allocated Rugby a place in the United Counties League Premier Division South for the 2025/26 season.
Former boss Ian King resigned from his role following the club’s relegation with Grant Joshua replacing him in the Butlin Road dugout.
The club have already made a number of signings ahead of the new campaign.
And despite planning for life back in the UCL Premier Division South, Valley want to embrace the opportunity of remaining at Step Four.
A club statement said: “While planning had already begun for life in the United Counties League again, the management team and board are united in embracing this opportunity and preparations are now underway for a fresh challenge in the NPL Midlands.
“We recognise that Hinckley Leicester Road’s withdrawal has brought a difficult and sudden end to the club in its current form and we extend our thoughts to the players, volunteers, supporters, suppliers and others affected by the club’s demise.”
