The new Covid-19 restrictions regarding groups not being more than six means the return of rugby looks set to be put back.

“We had thought we might start playing next month but that’s ruled out,” said Wellington coach Allyn Chetland.

“It’s very frustrating for the lads when you train hard but do not know when you will be playing competitive rugby.

“We now have to look at November as a starting date but even then we’re not sure.

“At the moment we can continue training as we are. However, these new restrictions have put everything in doubt. I think it is going to have a serious impact on the game. But it is what it is.”

Wellington 1st XV won Western Counties West last season and were promoted to play at their highest ever level in South West Two (West).

The current situation is frustrating for the senior side which had been geared up for an exciting season with games lined up against the likes of Bridgwater and Albion and North Petherton.

Such matches will attract big crowds and the financial aspect of the current situation is also very frustrating for the club.

INSIDE-HALF Ted Keay, 26, who captained Wiveliscombe’s 2nd XV last season, is the new club captain and chairman of rugby.

A PE and maths teacher at The Castle School, Taunton, he takes over from another player, Jake Sharland, who is now the club’s chairman.

Keay came up through Wiveliscombe’s youth set-up and is described as ‘a very popular member’ of the West Somerset club.

He said yesterday: “I would like to develop the junior section of the club and to maintain the fine training facilities we have.”