ASTWOOD Bank want to continue their upward climb through the Worcestershire Clubs League but could see their season hit by the foot and mouth crisis.

The Sambourne Lane side were promoted from Division Three last season after switching from the Warwickshire League two years ago.

But with Redditch's only two cases of the highly contagious foot and mouth diagnosed nearby, Astwood Bank could find themselves banned from playing.

"There is a league meeting this week," said captain Alex Robinson.

"Hopefully we will know more about the situation after that but a lot of it will probably come down to MAFF."

Robinson has left arm quickie Chris Houghton back after missing virtually all of last season with a back injury and is confident of another good season.

"We've got to consolidate in the division but there's no reason we cannot push for promotion."

Astwood visit Olton and West Warwickshire in a friendly on Saturday and Bretforton on Sunday ( both 1.30pm start).