BASINSGTOKE RFC head coach Gareth Hatherley-Hurford is really excited about this side’s London Three South West campaign which starts with an away trip to Farnham.

Hatherley-Hurford said: “The club has had a tough couple of years and we have not set ourselves any targets this season. we just want to move forward and the signs are very good at the club that this will happen.

“The mood is good in the camp and we have had an excellent turn out for training during the summer and a good pre-season.

The head coach added: “I feel we will be competitive and I am really looking forward to my second year in charge.

“We have a number of the old guard back from the time when the club were in the National League.

"These players are passing on their experience to the younger players.

"All of last year’s players are back and once again Rob Northcote will be our captain.”

Stoke relegated last term start their campaign away at Farnham, ahead of their opening home game a week on Saturday, when Weybridge Vandals will be the visitors to Down Grange.

Returning back to the team to give them a boost ahead of the opening fixture are Steve Hicks. Ollie John, Simon Appleby, Jamie Folan, David Lambert, Grant Murdoch and Matt Guilfoyle have all returned to the fold, which will strengthen their line-up for sure.

Talking about the opening game of the season, Hatherley-Hurford said: “I am expecting Farnham to be a well organised team and it is certainly going to be a tough opening game.

"We have to go there and give a good account of ourselves and I am sure it will be a good game.

Looking forward to the season opener captain Northcote said: “We’ve had a good pre season and the atmosphere in the squad is very upbeat and confident.

"The camaraderie within the team is also very good because I think experiencing last year has made everyone closer and more of a unit.