REAPPOINTED Salisbury RFC head coach Neil Loader believes his charges have the expertise to deal with the pressure of National League 3 South West rugby.

Loader is back at the helm after a two-year absence at Castle Road.

He replaces Dan Jeffries, who coincidentally succeeded Loader in 2014 when Green and Whites were demoted from South West 1 (East).

Under Jeffries' stewardship, Salisbury won back-to-back promotions to bring national league rugby to their fortress before stepping down due to 'personal circumstances' and joining rivals Trowbridge.

"This coming season is going to be a great challenge for myself and the players, but having talked to a number of the squad and other coaches it's one the whole of Salisbury Rugby Club is looking forward to," Loader said.

"I've inherited a well-coached and confident squad which, with some new signings, will be very competitive in the National League."

Preparations for next season are under way and Loader has finalised his coaching staff.

Salisbury, who will remain amateur, have retained the services of Liam Gilbert. He, Mark Saunby and Richard West are the forwards' coaches, Richard Lloyd will focus on the backs and Stewart Roderick defence, while assistant coach Del Gurney will cater for the thirds and fourths.

Roderick, director of rugby as well as coach, said: "Following two highly successful seasons, we are sorry to see Dan leave but wish him well in his new role as head coach at Trowbridge RFC."

"We are certain that Neil's experience, knowledge of the game and ability to develop players and coaches will prove invaluable as we begin our journey into National 3 and our second, third and fourth teams aim for promotion from their respective leagues."

The club's pre-season campaign starts next month.