COOKHILL are out to bounce back into the top flight of village cricket after falling victim to a league reshuffle last season.

The Nevill Arms side were dumped into Division Six of the Worcestershire Clubs League after a change higher up the league.

Teams cannot get promoted from Division Five without a second team but Cookhill want to regain their Division Five status under captain Mick Hill.

But the club will have to contend with the loss of veteran wicketkeeper and bat John Smith.

The 55-year-old, who topped the averages last year, is retiring to become club captain.

l And with a pre-season friendly at home to Great Barr Unity before the season starts on Saturday, May 5 at Stourbridge Social, the club is appealing for new recruits.

Anyone interested can ring John Smith on 01789 299922 or vice captain Mick Hill on 01527 857681.