COLWALL prepare for the 2017 season under a revamped set-up led by newly-elected chairman Kim Berry whose return to active involvement with the cricket club reaffirms a family connection that spans three generations.

Berry, 58, is back alongside elder brothers Adrian, the club president, and active supporter Jonathan who all performed with distinction in the 1970s and 1980s in the now-defunct Three Counties League.

A talented cricketer who played for county schools' teams and representative sides Kim captained Colwall aged 26 before his business career took him to Yorkshire where he led Leeds side Collingham.

He moved to Cheshire and played for Toft in the Cheshire League before returning to live in Bosbury in 2002.

Having retired he has now re-forged his links with Colwall where his father George was a long-serving former captain and chairman and uncles Phil and Fred also played a full part.

Since taking over as chairman Kim has outlined plans to reinvigorate the social and fundraising aspects with a view to updating their facilities and renewing and strengthening links with the community.

Over the winter the club’s committee, bolstered by new vice-chairman Alastair Smith and secretary Katie Cameron, have planned regular social events, starting with a Greek evening on April 29 at 7.30pm, as well as ensuring the playing facilities are up to standard.

They have worked hard to attract a record number of new sponsors for the senior and junior sections.

The first XI have a new captain in Ben Wheeler, 24, who takes over from Nick Panniers and aims for Worcestershire League Division One honours having finished runners-up to Worcester Nomads last season.

Wheeler, a powerful middle-order batsman and wicketkeeper, will miss the all-round ability of Tom Coleman, last season’s leading run-getter and bowler, but has retained most of last season’s squad with a few additions, including a new overseas player reputed to be a batsman and off-spinner.

He will also welcome the return of brothers Mike and Johnno Gooch who will bolster the pace attack while James Abel remains vice-captain.

The second XI have a new captain in 18-year-old all-rounder Fergus Cameron with experienced support from deputy Nick Hitchens.

Thirds duties in Marches League Division Two will be by Chris Conlon and vice-captain Gary Nicholson while the fourths will again be led by Mark Lessimore supported by Chris Horne.

Colwall first and second teams open the season with home friendlies against Bromyard on Easter Saturday, April 15, at 1pm while an inter-club match for thirds and fourths will be on the Ghost Meadow pitch.

The first XI begin their league campaign at Stourport on Saturday, April 22 (1pm), and host Bewdley the following weekend while the seconds' fixtures are reversed.

Colwall thirds open on Saturday, April 29, at home to Cleobury Mortimer (1pm) and the fourths travel to Wormelow thirds (1.30pm).