MORE and more people are playing hockey in Lydney. This winter the club will feature seven teams – two men's, two ladies', two youth and a mixed side.
The sport has expanded rapidly in the town in recent years and development officer Peter Compton described the growth as good news for the club.
"Last year we had as many as 30 ladies training on a Wednesday evening at Whitecross School, but we would still like to welcome any new players," he said.
Pre-season training started this week on Wednesday and players have already been preparing for the league season by competing in seven-a-side tournaments.
Lydney opened their account at the Leominster festival and fielded a development team.
Last season's Young player of the year, John Berry, took a leading role in midfield but on a tricky grass surface the older heads of Kevin Broadhurst, Martin Saunders and Gary James showed off their skills and all scored.
Lydney played well as a team and were pleased to beat Gloucester in the opening rounds.
This weekend the team will play in a mixed tournament in Hereford which will be the first opportunity for new captain Rachel Brobyn to lead out her team.