BEMERTON Heath Harlequins have a new-look side, with manager Rae Hughes revamping the squad to bring in local players.

Hughes is looking to create a good buzz around the club again and told JournalSport: “This season is all about rebuilding the squad with some local players.

“Graham Kemp did a fantastic job when he was here but only three of those players were local.”

As well as new, younger players being added to the squad, the former Robins manager has also been able to keep on experienced players such as Jake Rawkins, Jake Burgess, Elliott Cross and Jack Slade.

New staff members have been added, including Robbie Matthews as assistant and Andy Nash as a coach, with both bringing in valuable experience.

Hughes said: “I have tried to sign young hungry players who want to be part of the club going forward.”

Many of the new players have never played at this level before, but the Harlequins boss believes they are more than capable, and said: “A lot of the players are new to the Premier division, but in my opinion should have stepped up before, but did not have that opportunity.

“It may take a bit of time before they realise that they can compete in this league, but it needs to be done this way for the future of the club.”

Bemerton are still without a win this season from their first three games, but Hughes said: “I have seen enough in pre-season and the few games we have played so far to see that we will hold our own this year, which will then give us something to build on.”

The club are also running a reserve side this season, which will help bring local players into the game.