KINGTON Town’s promotion quest in Division Two of the West Midlands (Regional) League has been rocked by the news that Sikh Hunters have pulled out of the competition.

The Walsall-based side’s record is to be expunged, which means Kington, without a match last weekend, will lose the six points from their two victories over them.

FC Stafford, who were second behind Kington on goal difference, will take over at the summit after losing only one point, while Darlaston move into second spot after losing three.

Kington are now third, a point behind Darlaston with two games in hand and five adrift of Stafford, having played the same number of matches.

Town boss Shaun Harris, whose side are unbeaten in 15 league games, a run stretching back to November 1, said: “We are gutted by the news and it doesn’t seem fair but we have to remain positive.

“To come so late in the season is bitterly disappointing.”

Kington play their final home fixture against fourth-placed Warstone Wanderers this Saturday, before embarking on a demanding run-in of seven away games in 22 days.

They go into Saturday’s contest without key midfielder Brian Dyer, who serves the first of a three-game ban for a harsh sending off against Bartley Green.

But goalkeeper Zeke Vivian returns and striker Daniel Stack should be fit after a back injury.

Harris added: “It has added some pressure to the situation and it is going to be tough, but we are still confident we can win promotion.”