WELLINGTON begin their build-up to the new rugby season with a friendly at home to Welsh side Abercarn this coming Saturday (3.00).

They have two other warm-up games - home v Taunton Wanderers on Saturday, August 18 (mostly for 2nd XV players) and away v South West One side North Petherton on Thursday, August 23.

Wellington went through last season unbeaten at home in winning the Cornwall and Devon League and coach Allyn Chetland said: “We need to continue the form we showed at the Athletic Ground last season. We know it will not be easy because this is a step up for us.

“It is a challenge and the boys are up for it. Although we are a young side, some of the lads have already played Western Counties rugby and they didn’t find it easy. But they have had another season - and they are now more street-wise.

“All games will be hard whereas last season we only had to face three tough sides - Saltash, Penryn and Honiton.”

The game against Abercarn will provide the likes of Will Brewer, Tom Franklyn and Ollie Price with the chance to show what they can do after missing part or all of last season.

Prop Price did not play at all last season because of his studies at Plymouth, nor did Brewer through injury.

“It is important to get off to a good start and we will know by the end of the month how we stand,” added Chetland.

Wellington, who also won the Somerset Vase last season, play their first Western Counties West match at home to former National League side Chard on Saturday, September 1.

Wiveliscombe, runners-up in Somerset Premier, also start the new season with a home game on Saturday - against Bristol Barbarians who won Somerset One last winter.

Wellington 2nd XV are not in action until the following Saturday when they play at home to Bath Old Edwardians in Somerset One while Wiveliscombe 2nds play their Burnham on Sea counterparts in Somerset Two South at home on the same day.

Former Wellington flanker Jack Woodland has left Weston super Mare but it is not quite clear whether he will be back playing at the Athletic Ground this season.