After a sluggish start to their 2010 Devon League season, Ottery St Mary 1st XI once again fell agonisingly short of promotion to the C Division of the Francis Clark Devon League.

The Salston Field outfit are determined that both of their league sides hit the ground running in the coming campaign.

Indoor training, comprising a mixture of nets and cricket-based fitness routines, commences on Friday, February 4 (8 to 9pm) at the Colin Tooze Sports Centre in Ottery St Mary.

It will continue at the same time and location for a further nine weeks. The club has invested in the services of an ECB Level 4 qualified coach who will run the session on February 25. He will also be in attendance every Tuesday evening (6-30 to 8-30pm) starting on April 5 when outdoor training begins at the Otters’ Salston Field ground in Strawberry Lane, Ottery.

First XI skipper Jody Clements stressed the importance of all players taking advantage of the extensive pre-season training schedule, commenting: “After repeatedly falling short of what the club and its players expect, we felt that a change of approach was necessary.

“The opportunity to have a coach from Somerset CCC come down and help develop and inspire each and every player to improve their game is an exciting prospect.

“This will only work if all players commit and make themselves available whenever possible.

“We hope this development will help to boost the club to higher standards and attract the interest of other players or individuals who may wish to get involved.”

Further details can be obtained from Steve Forbes on 07860 885586 and, as always, new players would be very welcome.