Wapping have won promotion to the National League for the first time in their history after beating closest rivals City of Peterborough 2-1 to clinch the East Premier A Division title.

Goals from Ian Kibble and Phil Messent made history for the east London club.

Speaking afterwards, head coach Ryan D’Souza said: “We are incredibly proud and emotional to win what is acknowledged to be one of the toughest leagues in hockey.

“Promotion to the National League is the result of years of hard and thoughtful planning from many people at Wapping, both on and off the pitch.

“It is important to celebrate success, which we will definitely do, but we won’t get carried away as know we must continue to improve.”

Chairman Stuart Burnside continued: “Wapping were the first to bring hockey to urban east London, inspired by the 1988 Olympic Gold.

“Now we are the first National League side in the area, thanks to the inspiring 2012 legacy facilities and investment by Tower Hamlets Council & Sport England in the John Orwell Centre.”

Wapping ladies brushed aside Ipswich Seconds 6-2 in Division One South.

Old Loughtonians, third in Premier Division A, were 3-1 winners at home to St Albans.

The ladies drew 0-0 with West Herts, leaving them mid-table in the Premier Division.

In Division Two South, Crostyx beat Witham 4-2 while the ladies battered Hertford 7-1 in Division Two Central.