PREPARATIONS for Worcester City's forthcoming assault on the Dr Martens Premier Division got under way in earnest last night with a lengthy workout at Brickfields Park.

Under the watchful eye of assistant manager Mick Tuohy the players, including a clutch of trialists and new signings, were put through their paces as work began on building up stamina and endurance.

Among the trialists were striker Duncan Willetts from Cheltenham Town and Evesham youngster Grant Pinckey who was at City after a recommendation from St George's Lane favourite Phil Stant.

Tuohy was pleased with the general fitness of the players but reserved special praise for Leon Jackson whose fitness was "streets ahead" of the rest.

"We worked on some core stability with work on the stomach and back and also some endurance work," he said.

"It was very encouraging and it was nice to see Mark Owen back and his limp has now gone.

"Leon was streets ahead of everybody in fitness terms and looks very strong and over the injury problems he suffered towards the end of last season."

As well as the regulars and new signings David Foy and Pat Lyons, Tuohy was also able to have a first glimpse of the six trialists training with the club.

"They've all been with pro clubs and in the next few weeks we will have a look at them in game situations and take it from there," he added.

Mark Shail, Darren Middleton and John Snape were absent last night.