BURNHAM-on-Sea Rugby Club have begun their pre-season training and preparations for the upcoming season are in full swing.

Players returned to training last week and there were plenty of new faces.

In fact, the club is welcoming players old and new, and vice chairman Tim Piper made that clear.

He said: "New and old are always welcome at Burnham Rugby Club.

"Training is on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7pm and is fully focused on fitness with a ball and not without."

With the season now creeping up ever so closely, the club has also confirmed its two team captains for the First XV and the Second XV.

Ryan Beard takes on the mantel of First XV captain from Sam Lewis who has stepped down.

Piper added: "We thank Sam for all his efforts and hard work.

"Ryan has been ever present in seniors since the age of 17 and was highly tipped to be club captain from a young age and now takes on the responsibility with a full backing from all his team mates and club."

For the Second XV, the new captain will be Dave Harris, who takes over from Sam Kelly who has retired from playing.

"Sam has transformed and reinvigorated the 2s into not only a solid winning outfit but also a highly competitive side that will push on and on," Piper said.

"Dave has been with the club since junior and colt days and although brief spells away down the road at morganians he has been fully committed to the 2md team throughout and is now the right man to take on the task."

Recently the club held its Annual General Meeting chaired by club chairman Lee Berry.

After the meeting he said: "Thanks to those who attended the AGM. We are actively seeking volunteers to fulfill the following roles: Club Secretary, Sponsorship Secretary, and Junior Coaching Coordinator.

"The benefits of joining a very successful club and committee, you will have access to Six Nation and Autumn International Tickets. You will be provided Club Wear and also discounted Presentation Tickets.

"If anyone, or you know someone who may be interested then please contact myself."

In terms of rugby action, both the First and Second teams return to action in September against teams from Wellington RFC.

On September 2, the First XV play Wellington Firsts at home, and on the same day the Burnham Seconds travel to Wellington Seconds.