The good times are back at Spartans.

The club, who celebrate their centenary in a couple of years’ time, are playing games, winning games and enjoying themselves.

It’s all a far cry from 12 months ago, when they were forced to withdraw from Counties 2 Gloucestershire North because of a shortage of players.

Chairman Neil Brinkworth told The Local Answer at the time that the club were determined to regroup and that’s exactly what they have done.

They are currently third in the 10-strong Counties 3 Gloucestershire North having won seven and drawn one of their 11 games, and Brinkworth said: “It’s going well, from where we were this time last year we’ve turned things around.

“We’ve got a side out for every game, we’re competitive in the league and we’ve got a number of young players coming through.

“There’s still a long way to go but considering where we could have been we’re very optimistic, this season has gone very well.”

Spartans, who have won their last four games, host table-topping Tewkesbury a week on Saturday.

Tewkesbury are unbeaten this season and are eight points ahead of Spartans having played one game fewer.

Cheltenham Saracens are one point better off than Spartans and Brinkworth is realistic about the club’s aims this season.

“Anything in terms of promotion and titles is a bonus,” he said. “Being in the top three has exceeded our expectations.”

Spartans drew 17-17 at Tewkesbury back in October, the only time the leaders have failed to win this season.

Brinkworth also said that the club hoped to organise some 2^nd XV fixtures in the second half of the season.