NEIL Lyman is Worcester's longest serving player but the prop forward admits that reporting the pre-season training this year was like attending a new school.

They have been so many comings and goings at Sixways during the summer -- 18 new signings and almost as many departures -- that Lyman spent the first month of training getting to know his new team mates.

"It's been a bit like starting at a new school," said the 30-year-old from Kidderminster.

"There are one or two familiar faces such as Richard Denhardt and Tony Windo, but there were also a lot of new ones and we have had one or two social events arranged just so that we can get to know each other. But new players mean new ideas and everyone that has come to the club has a different approach and some thing fresh to offer which can't be a bad thing.

"We have also brought in a lot of players with international experience in almost every area of the side and no one, even me, is too old to stop learning."

The most conspicuous absentee from the squad is Steve Lloyd, who was forced into early retirement towards the end of last season by a chronic back complaint which required major surgery.

Lyman and Lloyd have been bosom buddies and partners in crime for more than a decade.

"It's a bit sad not having Lloydy about but even he could not keep going for ever," said Lyman.

"Its also a bit strange not having Dean Ball and Mark Linnett around because I have played a lot of my rugby with them."

Lyman who combines his rugby commitments with a part time job developing barn conversions in Worcestershire, is about to start his eighth season at Sixways having joined Worcester in Midlands One.

"I know the game has changed a lot since I played in the first division with Moseley but I would love to play at that level again"

"I want to keep playing as long as I can and while I have the time to devote training and fitness work.