WRAYSBURY Bentons have been stripped of the Ken Gomm Challenge Cup after a Thames Valley Sunday League probe prompted by an eagle-eyed Observer reader.

Bentons won the Challenge Cup last season after a 3-2 win against Real Milan in the final at Holloways Park, Beaconsfield on May 14.

However, after the Observer’s pictures from the match were studied it was reported that the winners had fielded an ineligible player.

Wraysbury named Luke Elliot on the teamsheet as their goalkeeper but instead played Liam Allen, who had not been registered by the club.

Bentons have admitted the charge and handed back the trophy and individual mementos, though club chairman John Stephenson insists it was a genuine mistake.

He said: “Our manager, Russell Windsor, thought Liam was signed on. I don’t get involved in team affairs whatsoever but that’s what was put across to me.

“It was an unfortunate error and Russell has never done it before, he would rather play with nine or 10 men. He openly admitted it with massive apologies and I believe him because he’s not the sort of person to make things up.

“It’s not embarrassing for the club, just a genuine mistake and we’re all very sorry. It wasn’t done on purpose.”

However, league chairman Robin Woolman says he feels sorry for Stephenson and has called on clubs to take care when checking player ID cards.

He said: “We looked at the photographic evidence in the Slough Observer and Real Milan put a protest in.

“Liam wasn’t a registered player so we have taken the cup away from Wraysbury, and Milan become the holders of the competition.

"If they had checked photo id's it would've come to light a lot sooner. They're not following the rules by not checking correctly, and what's the point in having the rule if they don't check

“I feel sorry for John because someone has clearly pulled the wool over his eyes, and we're not happy because it doesn't do the league any good.

“It could've been the end of Wraysbury Bentons but they are continuing to play. I think they will be more careful who they play from now on, and it's an eye-opener for other clubs."