OFFICIALS from Altrincham Kersal rugby union team are looking to add silverware to their trophy cabinet after winning an award.

First XV coach Chris Nettleton, captain Tristan Laga and director of rugby Chris Smith went to the RFU End of Season awards dinner held last week at Daresbury Park Hotel.

Kersal won 24 out of 26 matches and scored more than 850 points in the process as they were promoted to the North West One league.

Player John Paul Singleton said: "It was a fitting end to the season with all the league winners of different competitions and managed to get the league trophy.

"After a couple of difficult seasons it was nice to be back there winning things.

"We want to do it more often.

"Things are looking good for next season we have got a new coach and pre-season training started on Tuesday night.

"There are a few new faces in the squad and that will strengthen us.

"The new season is great because we have trips up to old adversaries in Cumbria etc and we are really excited about it.

"It is a faster fitter league and we have to be up for the challenge but we will not be over-awed by it."

AK kick-start their season with a home tie against Wilmslow in the Cheshire Cup on August 26.

Singleton added: "We have got a new sponsor the Bollington Group who have helped with our shirts and the club is looking at a bright future.

"We still want to welcome players of all abilities to come down to pre-season on Tuesday and Thursday night at the club between 7pm- 9pm.

"It was nice for Chris (Nettleton) to be there to pick up the award as he steps down after 20 years of service as head coach at the club but I am sure he will be still be around the club."