HAVING lost their place in the Premier Division of the Anglian Combination last season, Holt United are looking for an early return to the top division under the guidance of new manager John Coates.

HAVING lost their place in the Premier Division of the Anglian Combination last season, Holt United are looking for an early return to the top division under the guidance of new manager John Coates.

There is a real sense of optimism around the club that a revamped first team squad, and improved training and coaching will result in a side capable of making a serious challenge for the Division One title.

Pre-season training is already under way on Tuesday and Thursday evenings (7pm), and new players interested in playing in any of the clubs four Saturday teams are welcome.

Manager contacts: first team (Anglian Combination Division One), John Coates 01263 514500; second team (Anglian Combination Division Six), Matthew Raven 07789 295846; A Team (North East Norfolk League Division Two), Brett Squire 07786 420768; Colts (North East Norfolk Division Three), Paul Sanders 01263 713217.

First team pre-season friendlies have already been arranged with: St Andrews (home), July 25, 3pm; Dereham (home), August 1, 3pm; North Walsham (away), August 5, 7pm; Aylsham (home), August 8, 3pm; Cromer (home), August 14, 7.30pm. Pre-season matches will also be arranged for the other three sides.

The club held a very successful awards evening at the clubhouse on Saturday, June 13. The following awards were presented:

Colts, players' player Daniel Fuller; manager's player Andrew Russell. A team, players' player Mark Ridley; manager's player Mark Ridley. second team, players' player Matthew Raven; manager's player Richard Hooker. First team, players' player Chris Hopper, manager's player Chris Hopper; supporters' player Gavin Neal.

Young player of the year Matt Hudson; clubman of the year Brett Squire.