WORCESTER Rugby Club's director of rugby John Brain has reacted positively to the news of Cecil Duckworth's fresh commitment to Worcester.

The multi-millionaire chairman this week committed himself to another shot at promotion by pledging financial support to Brain and coach Andy Keast.

Brain will now begin the process of offering new deals to existing Sixways stars while searching for fresh talent to bring in.

"I had a meeting with Mr Duckworth and it was very positive," said Brain. "We're more or less back on track. The chairman said he's committed to a serious challenge next season and that is very good news. The budget he has outlined is more than adequate to mount a serious challenge.

"We'll be sitting down with the players next week either offering them deals or releasing them.

"I think the priority for us now is to keep two thirds of the squad together and supplement that with some shrewd acquisitions. What is clear is that we have to keep hold of the players who are under the biggest threat of being poached."