CHESTER City have finally been kicked out of the Blue Square Premier, further denting Forest Green's survival hopes.

At a meeting yesterday all 23 rival BSP clubs had the chance to vote on the Conference's proposal to expel Chester, who have failed to fulfil several fixtures or regularly pay their players this season.

There were also represen- tatives from the Blue Square North and South, who had eight votes between them, and overall more than 75 percent of clubs agreed with the proposal.

It means Chester's league record has been expunged and Rovers lose the three points gained with victory at the Deva Stadium in September.

Dave Hockaday's side are now five rather than four points adrift of safety, with 13 games left to play.

Rivals for relegation Gateshead are the chief beneficiaries of the decision, having lost to Chester twice this term.

Gateshead were due to host the Nailsworth outfit today but the game has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at the International Stadium.

No new date has yet been arranged for the match.