BROMSGROVE Rovers start and end a testing pre-season schedule with two difficult derby matches this summer.

Jimmy Mullen's side is set to test their mettle against ferocious derby foes Kidderminster Harriers, Paul Merson's Walsall and Redditch United in the build up to the Southern League Division One West.

Rovers start their preparations to what club officials hope will be a promotion-winning season by entertaining Kidderminster Harriers at the Victoria Ground on Tuesday, July 12.

The club then takes on Hednesford Town at home four days later, before clashing with Moor Green on July 19.

Coca-Cola League Division Two side Bristol Rovers then come to Rovers on July 23.

Hereford Town visits Rovers on July 27, and League of Wales side Welshpool visit the Victoria Ground three days later.

Rovers' interest in Welshpool striker Steve Rodgers is set to spice up the match.

Walsall, managed by former Arsenal and Aston Villa star Merson, take on Rovers at home on August 3.

Bromsgrove then complete a gruelling schedule by going to local rivals Redditch United on August 6.

Chairman Tom Herbert is hoping that the friendlies would be the perfect preparation for promotion in the 2005/2006 season.

The Rovers supremo also vowed that this was the season when they would finally escape the Division One West.

He said: "The friendlies set the tone for the season.

"They are tough but we want to go after the highest standards.

"I'm not messing about anymore, we've had three seasons in this division and it's about time we got out of it."

Behind the scenes Mullen and his assistant Bernard Mackie are still searching for new players.

Goalkeeper Lee Evans has been linked with the club this week, but Herbert would not confirm if he was a main target.

He said: "Jimmy and Bernard are talking to four goalkeepers at the moment."

The chairman also praised the fans' contribution behind the scenes this summer.

Generous supporters helped raise over two thousand pounds for a new tractor and have volunteered to tidy up the ground in time for next season.

Herbert said: "The fans have been magnificent for us this summer.

"They have dug deep to help the club out and I hope we can repay them by giving them what they want - promotion."

By Peter McKinney