LEIGH RMI hopes of a relegation reprieve were boosted after Nationwide Conference chief executive John Moules said it was unlikely that Margate would be allowed to ground-share with Dover for a further year.

Margate have asked to extend the agreement for up to another 12 months while Hartsdown Park is redeveloped.

The Conference board met Margate officials, Thanet Council and developers to discuss their future plans.

A decision on which league they will play in next year will have to be made before the Conference's AGM on June 5.

If Hartsdown Park is not upgraded to Conference standards, Gate may have to pursue a 10-year ground-share option -- rather than their current one-year plan -- to maintain their Conference status. Leigh RMI would earn a reprieve if Margate were relegated.

Meanwhile, the Railwaymen's boss Phil Starbuck has admitted that it was a hard decision to allow assistant manager Steve Redmond to leave Hilton Park.

The central defender was one of a number of players freed by Starbuck, with goalkeeper Gary Kelly taking on the duties of number two for the Railwaymen.

"It's one of the hardest decisions that I've ever had to take in football," said Starbuck.

"Gary has more qualifications and experience in coaching and is suited to the assistant role more than Steve.

"But he's done a great job with us and I wish him all the best for the future."