JAMES Hadwin returns to Kirkby Lonsdale after two years with Kendal and is set to captain the First XV, who open at home to Upper Eden in the North Lancs/Cumbria League on Saturday.

Kirkby have lost Jon Ladell in the opposite direction to join brother Luke, but Chairman of Rugby John Bowden said: "We have several new players in the first team and are trying to develop a young side and hope to play some quick and exciting rugby."

Kirkby's coach again will be Drew Anderson, who will be in his third season in charge at Underley Park.

Kirkby's pre-season preparations ran into difficulties when three pitches were badly cut up after Lunesdale Show was swamped with rain.

"They are level and seeded but not fully grassed, which is disappointing after a lot of money had been spent on them in past season improving the standard," said Mr Bowden.

Kirkby's promoted Second XV play in League 4 North of the newly revamped Fairclough Homes League.

Windermere, relegated back to the Cumbria League after a season up, hope to have former Kendal winger Jason Balmer in the squad.

Windermere beat Millom 18-11 in the prelim round of the Powergen Vase last year and meet Whitehaven in the first round on September 18. Creighton visit Dawes Meadow in the league on Saturday.

Ambleside survived after fears the club may have to pull out of the league because of a shortage of players and entertain BAe Barrow, also in the Cumbria League.