WELLINGTON are looking to play three pre-season rugby friendlies before their new campaign starts in Western Counties West in September.

But so far Wellington have managed to arrange only one - away to North Petherton on Thursday, August 23.

“It’s been a job trying to get matches fixed up,” added Wellington coach Allyn Chetland. “Last year we had a lot of clubs ringing us up for games. But not this summer. I’ve no idea the reason.”

Wellington’s players have been back training for a couple of weeks - on Mondays and Wednesdays - and Chetland added: “We’ve been having good numbers. Obviously some are missing - either on holiday or have work commitments.”

Former Cullompton scrum half Tom Franklyn has resumed training after missing most of last season following hip surgery while he has been joined by another scrum half Will Brewer who has been sidelined for more than two years through injury.

No 8 Micky Norman and prop Lee Wadham, two very experienced performers, have both retired while a couple of university boys have yet to decide on whether they will be playing for Wellington. Otherwise a majority of last season’s first team squad remain and have experience of playing in Western Counties.

Wellington lost only two games in winning the Cornwall and Devon League last season and also won the Somerset Vase, beating Winscombe comfortably in the final.

Their opening league game of the season is at home to former National League side Chard on Saturday, September 1 (3.00). The following Saturday they play at Crediton before they have another game at the Athletic Field - against Falmouth.

“It is a tough league as we found out two seasons ago when we were relegated,” said Chetland. “But I expect us to more than hold our own.”