CHINNOR look like being genuine title contenders in National 3 South West after strengthening their squad over the summer.

Having made eight signings and with no significant departures, Chinnor should have more competition for places than ever.

And with no obvious title favourites such as Taunton and Hartpury College, as in the previous two seasons, there is every reason for Chinnor to be confident.

Head coach Jason Bowers told club members: “This season we have genuine competition for all positions on the pitch and selection will be a challenge each week.

“Let’s keep fingers crossed to avoid so many long term injuries, and with a fair wind, let’s have a real crack at it.”

Bowers added: “Our ambition is to be competitive all season in all Cup and League matches.”

Chinnor’s signings include the return of back-row forward Liam Gilbert from Salisbury and the addition of young Oxfordshire wing Harry Carr, from Grove.

Former Oxford Harlequins back Frank Jones has joined from Littlemore, while Amersham & Chiltern pair Steffan Myburg and Jacques Naude add front-row competition.

Backs coach Tim Holmes has left to spend more time with his family and has been replaced by players Matt Goode and Richard Williams.

Lock Andy Smith has stepped up as forwards and condition coach, while former Wallingford director of rugby Martin Moran is heading up Chinnor’s second team.

IN: Liam Gilbert (back row, Salisbury), Henry Colver (centre, Buckingham), Tommy Gray (back three, Brackley), Steffan Myburg (hooker, Amersham & Chiltern), Jacques Naude (prop, Amersham & Chiltern), Frank Jones (centre, Littlemore), Harry Carr (wing, Grove), Max Mitcham (scrum half, Henley College).

OUT: None. LAST SEASON: 4th. PREDICTION: Top two.