Old Patesians’ build-up to the new campaign gathers momentum this weekend when they play their first pre-season fixtures.

The newly-promoted South West Premier club are taking part in a triangular fixture at Dings Crusaders on Saturday which also involves Coventry-based club Broadstreet.

The following week the Pats host Lydney in another friendly and they are still hoping to arrange a third game, ideally on Thursday 23rd August.

Three of the club’s new signings – Tom Knight, Morgan White and Gareth Winter – are expected to feature in the pre-season games.

Knight, a scrum-half from Chosen Hill, has played for Gloucestershire Under-20s and is “looking to push on” says club captain Connor Thompson.

“Technically he’s very good and we’re looking forward to seeing how he develops,” added Thompson.

White, meanwhile, is a second row from Exmouth, who is starting university at Hartpury.

“He played for Devon last season,” said Thompson. “He’s a young lad who is big and athletic. He’s been travelling up from Devon to attend training so you can’t fault his commitment already!”

Winter is a prop who has joined the club from Old Cryptians.

“He has represented Wales in the shot putt and is trying his hand at rugby,” said Thompson.

“His numbers in the gym are incredible and his athleticism for a big guy is impressive but he will admit himself he is a bit raw in the technical aspects.”

And last season’s South West One East champions are hoping more new recruits will follow.

“We’re currently waiting for confirmation on five or six players which will really benefit the squad,” said Thompson.

“We’ve retained the majority of the squad from last year and had some Colts push through as well.”

Thompson, a tighthead prop who has been playing for the club since 2009, is hoping to play a big part in the campaign himself although his pre-season has been disrupted by a shoulder injury.

“I had an injection in it a few weeks ago to little effect,” he explained. “I’ve got a follow up consultation on Thursday 16th August – I may possibly need an operation. It’s not ideal but if I do I will push hard to get back as soon as I can.”