HENRY Shutler is Ellingham first team’s new captain and he will be leading his side in the opening match of the season at Picket Post on Saturday where they take on St Cross Symondians 3rds in County Division 1.

It will be a challenging season for Ellingham as the Forest club have entered four teams into the Hampshire League with the seconds playing in newly-formed County Division 4 West, the thirds in Regional Division 3 West and the fourths in Regional Division 4 South West.

In contrast, Ringwood are now down to one side that plays in Regional Division 2 having been relegated last season. A lack of regularly available players has forced the club to disband its second string. Ringwood open their campaign at Alderholt.

Woodgreen travel to Privet Park for their opening fixture with Gosport Borough 2nds in County Division 3 South whilst in County Division 4 West there are away fixtures for Burley, Ellingham 2nds and Verwood.

In Regional Division 1 West, Damerham take on Godshill whilst Breamore visit Brockenhurst at Balmer Lawn and Hyde entertain Mudeford 2nds.

Burley 2nds host Hyde 2nds in Regional Division 3 West while Verwood take on New Milton IV at Potterne Park and Ellingham 3rds travel to Farley 2nds.

Ellingham IV commence their Hampshire League campaign with a home fixture at Picket Post where they meet Hythe and Dibden IV.