HARWICH and Parkeston defender Nicky Palmer believes this season has been an "unmitigated success" - wherever the Shrimpers finish.

Kieron Shelley's side are fourth in Thurlow Nunn League first division south and still in the hunt for a promotion spot, breathing down the necks of both Halstead Town and White Ensign.

They are a point behind the latter and six behind Halstead, but have a game in hand on the Humbugs following the postponement of Saturday's match at Holland FC.

"This season has exceeded all expectations," said Palmer, who has made well over 100 appearances for Harwich.

"I was playing right-back here nine years ago, when we pulled out of the then Ridgeons League (now Thurlow Nunn League).

"I honestly didn’t think the club would make it back.

"After being given a lifeline (promotion last term), this season was all about finding our feet and hoping we could cut it.

"I’d told the managers at the start that finishing mid-table was a realistic aim for me.

"But to be in the top four towards the tail-end is just fantastic."

Palmer believes there is a hunger within the dressing room that has driven the team on this season.

The buoyant Shrimpers won 12 games in a row at one point, equalling a post-war record previously set in 1964.

"We don’t have the budget or some of the facilities, the youth system or everything in place behind the scenes that other local clubs do," added former Little Oakley and Wivenhoe Town man Palmer.

"But what we have is a group of lads who have been given a chance, that are hungry and will play for the badge, and two managers that believed in us.

"The work Kieron and (assistant boss) Mike (Wallace) put in cannot be underestimated, especially considering where Harwich were a year ago. Not to mention people behind the scenes like (chairman) Tony Armstrong.

"It really does feel like we've got the town behind us.

"It's boosted the club massively and the fans have been incredible.

"At times, the home support takes me back to when I first started playing here and there really is no feeling like it when you hear the roar of the Royal Oak.

"The away support is unreal, too, with fans coming to London, Basildon and beyond just to watch Harwich. That says it all, really.

"So for me, regardless of where we finish now, this season has been an unmitigated success on and off the field.

"It’s just good to be back and roll on next season."

Harwich return to action on Saturday when they welcome Coggeshall United to the Royal Oak.

The match at Holland has now been rescheduled for next Tuesday (March 26).