Dereham will play National League hockey next season

Dereham Hockey Club is going national

Dereham Hockey Club is celebrating after securing a place in the National League for the first time.

An emphatic 10-1 win over struggling Saffron Walden secured the Womens' EastLeague Premier Division title.

Kath Malvern and Hannah Palmer both scored hat-tricks as Dereham confirmed their promotion in style.

Coach Karen Cleaver said: "It will be interesting and a challenge, but the squad works so well together we're really looking forward to it."

Cleaver, who took on the dual role of first team coach and manager three years ago, said promotion had been far from certain until almost the end.

"There were three teams in contention, and the key for us was beating Wapping 2-1 the previous week. That meant we could afford to draw against Saffron Walden, but the team was determined to do it in style.

"The likelihood is we will now play in the Eastern Conference of the National League, which is one level below the top division, the National Premier. I feel the squad has the talent to do well, but we will have to pick up our training."

Cleaver paid particular tribute to former England star Evie Gardner.

"Evie has been a huge asset since she returned to the club, and the other players, such as Chloe Hobson who has been selected for the England under 18 squad, have learned a lot from her.

"But we have strength in depth throughout the club, and hopefully the first team's success will continue to increase the interest in hockey in and around Norfolk."