MALVERN Rugby Club begin the countdown to their new Midlands One season next week when the players check in for pre-season training.

The hardy bunch have already been attending Monday aerobics training, which continue, and Wednesday fitness sessions throughout the close season, but rugby training starts in earnest on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm on July 2.

All players will return to Spring Lane and will be watched by new coach Andy Cushing, assisted by Paul Essenhigh.

"We hope that all players wishing to turn out for Malvern, at whatever level, will turn up to the sessions," said director of rugby David Robins.

"We will also extend a warm welcome to any new players wishing to join us, whether to play 'social' rugby or to strive for a place in the upper echelons of the club sides.

"With developments apace to strengthen and improve the club's infrastructure, we offer a high standard of rugby at one level below National League level, and a flourishing social element as well.

"New players should come to a training session and seek out Andy, Paul, club skipper Vince Hill or myself."