The merger between the Southern Counties East League and the Kent Invicta League has been approved by the Football Association.

The FA’s Leagues Committee have given the leagues the go-ahead to merge at the end of the current season.

Denise Richmond, who is currently chairman of both leagues, said: “It’s a tremendous boost for football In the south east that the two leagues can join forces.

“All clubs in both leagues at separate emergency general meetings supported the merger and now the FA fully support the clubs.

“It is great progress for the region, and will support football development across the South East. Enormous investment has been made over the past five years by the Invicta League clubs, from both the Football Foundation and clubs' own pockets, to get to this stage.

“As this season ends, 16 out of the current 20 member clubs will have a minimum of grade G, with 10 member clubs already there. This is much better than the national average for Step 6 of less than 50%.

“By this decision the FA continue to support Invicta League clubs’ progress, having already agreed for two members clubs to be promoted next year.

“The new league will remain as the Southern Counties East Football League and will continue to facilitate football at steps 5/6 ensuring it has 'the wings to fly' and support the Kent County League to provide a path for clubs to progress through the National League system.”

Kent Invicta League administrator John Moules said: “Kent football has taken another giant step forward with the FA National Leagues Committee confirming approval of the Southern Counties East Football League and the Kent Invicta Football League merging into a single competition for season 2016/2017.

“The merger will enhance football across the county and take football in Kent and the surrounding area to another level in the game.”