Coach Rob Sigley commented “We are obviously delighted to have recruited such quality players for what will certainly be a challenging season. There are some very well drilled teams in this division and we will need to be at our best if we are to progress.”

Bournville celebrate their centenary season this year under the stewardship of Club Chairman Ivor Boehmer who added, “It’s great to see the 1st team doing so well but we’ll also be looking to develop our 2nd and 3rd teams this year, as well as building on the success of the veteran Hippos side who were awarded 2009 RFU President’s XV Veterans Award. Our women’s XV and our mini/junior section are also thriving but we are always looking for new players of any standard - anyone interested should go to www.bournvillerfc.co.uk or contact Rob on 07943 835 273.”

Bournville 1st XV kicked of their season with two friendlies against RFU Championship sides Coventry and Moseley and put on promising shows in both games. Despite two narrow losses, Bournville were by no means outclassed and some solid defence coupled with some strong running has shown that the side from Rowheath are ready for the step up to Midlands One.

The league campaign starts on Saturday 5th September with a home fixture against Whitchurch, kick off 3pm, admission free.