LYDNEY rugby manager Gordon Sargent is expecting to announce some new additions to the Regentsholme squad when the third division side begins training next month.

Coaches Rhodri Lewis and Peter Kingston will be putting the players through their paces from July 11 and training will intensify rapidly to prepare the team for the opening game at home to Preston on September 2.

"The coaches have talked to a lot of players and I'm sure there will be some new faces to strengthen the squad," said Sargent.

"As everyone knows the third division is a highly competitive league with an excellent standard of rugby. The real need is for strength in depth and we want a bigger pool of players capable of competing at what is one step from the fully professional scene.

"Any players who fancy a tilt is welcome to contact me for a chat," said Sargent.

The coaching team has been strengthened by the addition of Andy Wyman, John Saville and Rob Rees.

Sargent will manage the senior team and Kevin Rosser, the United. The Colts,who have a packed fixture list this season, will be coached by Keith Johnson, John Matthews and Steve Bevan.

The club celebrated the traditional end of last season with its annual salmon supper on Saturday. Guest speaker was Wharfedale president John Spencer, the former England and British Lions centre.

Player of the Year trophy was awarded to front-row forward Paul Price (at present in Australia). The Most Promising Young Player award was won by Lee Johnson and the Arrowsmith Trophy by Keith Wildin. The Chairman's Special Award went to Keith Rosser.

New teams in the third division will be West Hartlepool, Rugby Lions, Kendal and Esher.