PAUL Athey will lead Avoncroft CC First XI into their first ever Worcestershire County League Division Three campaign.

Athey was re-instated as captain for his third year at the club's recent annual general meeting after leading the team to promotion last year. Rich Sinclair will be vice-captain.

Guy Weston was also re-elected as Second XI captain with Mark Taylor as vice-captain.

At the meeting president John Sutcliffe praised the club's teams for their excellent performances during the season.

That success will lead to Avoncroft fielding three Saturday teams for the first time in the new season with Steve George taking the reigns of the newly-formed Thirds.

Jon Bird and Matt Hare continue as captain and vice-captain of the Sunday XI.

Meanwhile, the club has started pre-season net sessions and is looking for new players. Sessions run on Sunday mornings at Bromsgrove School's Sports Hall. Junior sessions run from 9 to 10am with adults from 10 to 11am.

As of Friday, March 26, sessions move to 5 and 6pm and 6 and 7pm for juniors and adults respectively. More details from Paul Athey on 01527 559247.

The club also holds their presentation evening at Stoke Prior Sports and Country Club on Friday, March 19 at 8pm.