REDDITCH Rugby Club are looking to raise the stakes this coming season as they plan to make a full scale assault on the Midlands League Division Four South West title.

Players have already been back in pre-season training since the end of June and club President Brian Carr said: "We've already been getting some good numbers down to training, with several new faces on board, some of whom have been recruited from social media.

"It's really looking encouraging this summer and we welcome even more people to join in.

"We're quite happy for people of all skills and experience to train with us."

Apart from the first XV, Redditch also intend to run a second XV which also doubles up as their development squad in addition to an Exiles side which is designed for veteran players.

Former first XV skipper Stan Hull has taken over the running of the Exiles and Brian Carr added: "He's the perfect person to pull the side together and has already persuaded a number of occasional players to commit to playing on a more regular basis.

"Our Exiles used to be a particularly strong side and I can see them heading back in that direction under Stan".

Scrum half James Mills will captain the first XV this season, taking over the reins from Gareth Davies.

Redditch can also include South African cricketer Barrie Forrester-Smith which will considerably strengthen their ranks.

Brian Carr added: "He's a cracking player who joined us late last season and certainly adds to the side.

"We are looking to make a real impact this season. We've seen local rivals Alcester enjoying their moment in the limelight last season and now we want a slice of success for ourselves.

"Although we finished mid-table last season there's a feeling within the club that we can do much better. We produced some impressive results, but lacked consistency and that is something we intend to put right."

Redditch currently run a strong under-16 side which is likely to form the basis of a Colts XV for the following season, while a range of junior sides are put through their paces at the club every Sunday morning.

Senior training takes place at Redditch RFC's Bromsgrove Road headquarters every Tuesday and Thursday from 7pm under the watchful eye of coach Simon Fitzpatrick.