CHAIRMAN Shaun Hearn insists a top-six finish is the ultimate goal for Dorchester Town this term.

The county town-based businessman first announced his hopes for the new season at a fans’ forum last February.

And he remains convinced that a challenge for the Blue Square Bet South play-offs is not beyond the realms of possibility, despite the bookmakers pricing Dorchester at a lengthy 33/1 for promotion.

He said: “If we can take some of our pre-season form into the new season we’ll have a good chance.

“I’m sure everyone would like to finish in the top six and that’s still the aim – I’ve no doubt Ashley Vickers would say the same.

“It’s going to be important to hit the ground running and get off to a good start because after the first 10 games you should know what sort of a season you’re going to have.

“I’m really looking forward to the season. Ash has put a good squad together and it’s nice to see us in the black and white stripes again.”

Dorchester are as long as 66/1 to win the league outright, with only Weston-super-Mare (100/1), who were reprieved from relegation last season, priced higher.

The Magpies are placed bottom of the pile in the race for promotion, priced at 33/1 with Blue Square Bet.