THERE were celebrations at Ardley United after they clinched the Uhlsport Hellenic League Division 1 West title with three games to spare.

Boss Craig Adey’s side, who have topped the table all season, secured the crown with a hard-earned 1-0 victory away to Kidlington Res on Saturday.

Chairman Ian Feaver was thrilled the win.

“I am over the moon,” he said.

“Craig Adey and his team have done an amazing job and this has been a real team effort both on and off the pitch.

“So many people have contributed so much to our success this season and I can’t thank them all enough.

“We will now be ready to tackle the Premier Division and relish the challenge that it will bring.”

Despite piling on the pressure, Ardley struggled to find the opening they were seeking.

Their cause was not helped when defender Daniel Leggett was sent off in the 65th minute.

However, just five minutes later, skipper Deon Gallacher made the breakthrough.

The visitors were rarely troubled after that and it was not long before the celebrations started in earnest.

The champions came down to earth when they lost 4-2 away to Easington Sports on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Division 1 East leaders Bicester Town suffered a 4-1 defeat at home to Premier Division side Oxford City Nomads in the Bluefin Sports Supplementary Cup.