Telford among hottest of bets

Telford are unbeaten in 36 league games, and that has blistering form seems to have persuaded the bookies that they are near-certs for elevation to the Conference North.

Only Oxford United have shorter odds among any of the clubs in England at Telford's level or higher, the 'U's currently priced at 2/7 to take the Conference National crown.

Chelsea remain favourites for the Premiership, but Manchester United's stiff challenge means they are a best priced 5/8 to take the title for a third consecutive year.

Birmingham City (9/4) are favourites for the Championship, while Nottingham Forest (5/6) and Walsall (13/8) head the betting in Leagues One and Two respectively.

Glasgow Celtic seem to be British football's most sure bet though, with bookies only prepared to offer them at 1/33 for the Scottish Premier League title.

Telford's blistering first half of the campaign has had fans dreaming of going an entire season undefeated, though any hoping to cash in should that happen will be disappointed.

"Without being disrespectful to Telford, we'd only really do something like that higher up the pyramid," said Bet365 spokesman Steve Freeth, whose company currently offer the Bucks at 1/4 for the title, with Burscough their nearest challengers at 9/1.

"If it was Arsenal or Chelsea on a run like this we'd definitely offer odds on them going all season unbeaten, but we won't be falling over ourselves to do that in the UniBond League because the interest in it wouldn't justify the work."

AFC Telford's reserve clash with Worcester City last night at the New Bucks Head was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

By Chris Hudson