Launton Sports boss Joby Edwards says the club are buoyant as they prepare for their first-ever Hellenic League campaign.

Edwards, who has been manager at Launton for three seasons, takes his side to Cirencester United in Division 1 West tomorrow, and says he is relishing the prospect.

He said: "I phoned one of our players (Lee Thomas) to tell him he was on the bus to Cirencester, and his enthusiasm and excitement rubbed off on me.

"I've been managing Lee for three years since I came here, and when he heard he was in our first Hellenic team, he was buzzing. That's when it really struck me what we have achieved."

Edwards, who points to central defender Gary Lawton as his key summer signing, has no illusions as to the task ahead.

He said: "Staying at this level would be a tremendous achievement."

Clanfield are set to field a number of new faces this season.

The west Oxfordshire outfit have been perennial under-achievers in recent years, but boss Jason Court has brought in a number of experienced players - many from a higher level.

Goalkeeper Chris Brain has signed from Premier Division side Kidlington, while Court has also snapped up Gary Morrison (Gloucester City), Tim Jenkins (Carterton), Sean McKeon (Almondsbury Town) and Mike Wharton (Salisbury City).

Also joining the Radcot Road outfit are Chris Benson (Letcombe), Ben Acock (Bourton Rovers), Steve Olphert (Faringdon Town) and Chris Connell (Exeter City Youth)..

Thame United boss Mark West says the club are geared up for a swift return to the Premier Division.

Thame were relegated on goal difference last year, and West said it took a while for it to sink in.

"A lot didn't go right for us last year, and it was a massive blow to go down.

"But we've retained most of last season's squad and we're looking good defensively and in midfield.

"We are going to be a team that most others will want to beat, but it's up to the lads to show what they're capable of."