Chelmsford has not been granted City status, and there may be ongoing problems 'off the field, but the 'town's' football club are keeping the flag flying as their bid for promotion to the premier division of the Dr Martens League continues at a pace.

City beat Banbury United 3-2 at their 'home' ground, New Lodge, Billericay, on Saturday, a win which leaves City eight points clear of their nearest rivals at the top of the Eastern Division.

City also have three games in hand of the second placed club, Rothwell Town.

Clarets manager Gary Bellamy is happy about the club's current position, but he will not be completely satisfied until City have gained automatic promotion.

He said: "Going into the Christmas period with a healthy points advantage is good, but we cannot afford to be, and will not be, over-complacent.

"Each of our opponents treats a game against Chelmsford City as their cup final, and they pack their defence, but, in most cases, we have been too good for the opposition -- and I want that trend to continue until the last game of the season.

''The club's supporters have been terrific this season, at 'home' in Billericay, and away matches, and their support has been second to none, and is very much appreciated by the players.

Bellamy added: "We have got a great team spirit and everybody involved with the club is geared towards us getting promoted.''

By Garry Stubbings

Reporter's e-mail: garry.stubbings@essex-chronicle.co.uk

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