Everybody with a connection to the town, whether football fan or not, is thrilled that our team has done so well. My father is particularly happy because, even though he has followed and supported Borough's progress for years, he will get to see his home team of Torquay United playing at Priory Lane.

But for all our residents, organisations and businesses, the feelgood factor of supporting the team even in the smallest way and seeing its promotion cannot be denied.

One of great things about Borough's victory is the huge boost it will bring to Eastbourne's image as a place to work, live and visit.

The fact that Borough and its huge army of fans will be participating in away matches further and further afield will give a positive shine on the tired old image that Eastbourne is a declining town with an ageing population.

And the influx of higher calibre teams playing at Priory Lane, plus the greater number of spectators, can only bring benefits to our economy.

In recent years the borough council has launched high-profile advertising campaigns to get potential visitors – particularly in London – to Change Your View.

In a clever yet costly way, the campaigns have challenged the national perception that Eastbourne is nothing more than 'God's waiting room' and emphasised we have a wide range of activities to enjoy for tourists of all ages.

The truth is we do have plenty to offer – restaurants, theatres, water sports, outdoor and family pursuits – and plenty of beautiful scenery in the form of our elegant seafront and the spectacular sweep of the Downs. And of course, we have an up and coming football team.

Borough's elevation will do more to change people's views than any advertising campaign as in this country there is nothing like football to fire the collective imagination.

Coming from a dozy woman who had to have the off side rule explained to her in a pub with pint glasses to illustrate the players, that is high praise indeed.