KIDDERMINSTER Harriers duo Adie Smith and Scott Stamps hope to be off the casualty list as soon as possible in the New Year.

Utility player Smith looks likely to return to action first after recently undergoing surgery for an ankle injury.

Aggborough manager Ian Britton said: "Adie is back in the gym doing some fitness work. It's going to be a good two to three weeks before he will be in contention."

Former Bromsgrove Rovers campaigner Smith has not played since figuring in Harriers' 2-1 FA Cup first round defeat against former Nationwide Conference rivals Rushden & Diamonds at Nene Park on November 26.

Defender Stamps, who recently had an operation for a groin problem, is facing a longer spell on the sidelines.

He is not expected to start light training until after Christmas, having made his last appearance in his side's 3-2 LDV Vans Trophy second round victory over Division Two outfit Swindon Town on November 12.

Meanwhile, Harriers are hoping to stay injury-free during their hectic Christmas and New Year programme.

On Boxing Day they entertain Leyton Orient at Aggborough (3pm) in a Nationwide League Division Three clash with Britton's men hoping to improve on their dull 0-0 deadlock at Brisbane Road earlier in the season.

Kidderminster then visit Bury on Sunday, December 29, and on New Year's Day face the long trip to take on Exeter City.

Both games kick-off at 3pm.