Ryman League clubs face an uncertain future after being told they will not be recognised as a feeder by the Conference.

A row erupted yesterday after the Conference released a statement stating their intention to only accept clubs from the Unibond and Dr Martens leagues from 2002-3.

Conference Chief Executive John Moules says he envisages the Ryman becoming a Dr Martens League feeder.

But Ryman secretary Nick Robinson said this is an insult to the league and its clubs and said: "How dare they downgrade us. The Conference is living in a fantasy world and we're determined to fight them on this."

Worthing, Bognor, Horsham and Lewes would be effected if it is endorsed by the FA.

Bognor boss Jack Pearce, said: "I will be amazed if the FA sanction it. It will be very disappointing.

"The Ryman League is of the same standard to the Dr Martens and Unibond. To disregard it would be plain stupid."

Moules says top Ryman sides will be invited into a newly- formated Dr Martens League.

He said: "It would give clubs the chance to progress, because we would allow four teams to be promoted into our fold with two going up from each, rather than one at the moment.

"There's been a need to restructure below the Conference for sometime.

"The Dr Martens and Unibond leagues have been more keen to make progress than the Ryman. This is a move to benefit clubs and supporters."

Worthing boss Sammy Donnelly said: "I'm against anything that puts us down a standard, but we'll just concentrate on getting into the Premier and worry about it if it goes happen."