The two clubs relegated from League Two have dropped an attempt to halt their drop into non-league.

Grimsby and Southend had joined forced to submit a proposal to the EFL.

They had claimed it was "unfair" to consign them to the National League in a campaign when there was no relegation from that division.

But the Mariners and Shrimpers have now abandoned their bid to remain in the EFL, and will take their places in non-league's top tier for the 2021/22 season.

The League was set to discuss the matter at its AGM but over the weekend a Grimsby statement said: “Grimsby Town has agreed with the EFL not to progress any proposed rule changes in connection with promotion/relegation between the EFL and the National League.

“We take this opportunity to wish good luck for the rest of the season to the clubs challenging for promotion to League Two and look forward to participating in the National League in 2021/22, hopefully with the backing of all our respective fans returning to support us.”

Southend chairman Ron Martin has also confirmed the Essex club would not be taking the matter further.

"Southend United supported Grimsby Town's proposal in recognition of the changes to the National League rules during the campaign conflicted with the stated objective of the FA pyramid where promotion and relegation are a fundamental principle," said Martin in the Southend Echo.

"This past 15 months due to Covid has necessitated many twists and turns within the industry in order to keep clubs, particularly those further down the pyramid alive.

"Whilst the National League changes to their rules did not favour Grimsby Town or indeed Southend, and why we supported their proposal we are equally content to support Grimsby Town withdrawal.

"I accept the club's performances were not good enough, apart from short spells, throughout the season and deserved to be relegated."

Grimsby finished bottom of League Two, five points adrift of safety, with second-bottom Southend relegated by a three-point margin.