MALVERN RFC director of rugby David Robins is looking towards his 11th season with the club as a year for rebuilding the side.

The Spring Lane side will be playing in Midlands Two West Two for the third season after dropping down from Midlands One after the 2002/3 season following some divisional re-organisation.

Robins said: "After narrowly missing out on promotion some players have decided to seek a higher standard of rugby and we have encouraged them to do so. Rob Young, a stalwart on the wing for so long, has gone to Old Patesians to try his hand at National League rugby, whilst Mark Eastwood has returned to National Two side Stourbridge.

"Several players have headed off to the Antipodes, including Richard Fleming, Alex Wenden and James Hinds, all of whom should return with some valuable experience whilst Nick Smith, who has commuted from Stafford to play and train for the last three years, has opted for Burton.

"On the plus side, we have signed Gareth Taylor from Stourbridge, a number 8 with over 150 National League appearances, and skipper Matt Richardson can look forward to the return o Phil Rowle and Jamie Anderson in the first part of the season.

"We also have the chance to blood some of our promising young players who have come through the ranks under the watchful eye and careful tutelage of 2nd XV captain Vince Hill.

"We see the season as one of change and consolidation, not necessarily expecting to be in the promotion chase but doing our best to stay one of the top sides at our level.

"As always, we welcome new and returning players of all abilities. We have the undoubted coaching talents of Liam Middleton, part of the tremendously successful Hartpury College coaching team, and he will be joined as player-coach by Dave King on his return from Australia.

"Training takes place at Spring Lane on Tuesdays and Thursdays and we have already seen some sharp and competitive sessions."

Former Town dentist Terry Hunt has been elected as president, whilst Peter Doran continues as chairman, assisted by John Taverner as treasurer and Bill Pomeroy as secretary.