Southwick gained promotion without kicking a ball this week but triumphant manager Geoff Pook may not be at the helm when they start life in Division One next season.

The Wickers were promoted on Tuesday when their next opponents Lingfield withdrew from the league.

Pook's side can also secure the division two title if they win their remaining game today against another strugg-ling side, Crowborough Athletic.

Pook, who took charge at Old Barn Way in September after the club had suffered five straight defeats, said: "It is a remarkable achievement to win promotion especially when effectively we had five games less than everyone else to turn our fortunes around.

"We always felt there was a possibility of promotion in this division as sides are capable of taking points off each other."

Pook only discovered Wickers were promoted when the Sports Argus tipped him off.

He declared: "It's like when Brian Clough won the title with Derby in 1972 and he was in Spain."

Pook added: "I believe the team we have now is good enough to make a challenge in Division One next year. We may need a bit more strength up front and maybe one more player in mid-field."

However, Pook may not be in charge for Wickers' next campaign.

He said: "I said when I took over that I would give it a full season and see how things go.

"I don't think I can dedicate the time this job needs especially as I have a young family and work commitments. My assistants Bob Hitchcock and Ian Stevens have been marvellous with their support this season but I shall make my mind up at the end of the season.

"The committee are aware of this situation."

Though delighted at gaining promotion, Pook believes a number of recent incidents, including Lingfield's withdrawal and the abandoned game bet-ween Ringmer and Sidlesham, have tainted the season.

Pook said: "The County League is in danger of losing its integrity.

"It has been a very difficult season but there are a number of situations that need to be looked at and there must be some explanations.

"The administration needs to be very firm."

Southwick are angry that they failed in a claim for three points following a 2-2 draw at Bosham in March where the kick-off time was altered and they played the game under protest with a weakened side.

They plan to appeal to the Football Association.

Pook is also among the managers question-ing why Peacehaven's away fixtures against Oakwood and Bosham have both been played at home.