A CRITICAL shortage of players is puzzling Bromsgrove Hockey Club.

Just weeks into the new campaign the club are struggling to fill their teams and are concerned about the effect this could have on the town's only hockey set-up.

Chairman Alan Gormley can't understand the sudden problem.

He explained: "We have had a lot of injured players and holidays have hit us hard but for a club of our size we should be able to cope.

"We have a strong youth section and this, together with some good first time seniors, is the reason we have been able to put full sides out to date.

"Our junior players have performed really well, especially when they have been called in to teams they may not be quite ready for yet.

"If you are a former player and haven't been contacted by us you can give me a call.

"We will be only too happy to welcome you back and that goes for new players too, young or old.

"If you can't commit to playing every week, that doesn't matter, we can be flexible."

If you can help the club out in this difficult period, call Alan on (01527) 875170.