CALNE: NEW head coach Richard Kearney is hoping for a season of consolidation after Calne narrowly missed out on promotion in 2005/6.

Kearney joined the experienced Neil Watkins on the Anchor Road coaching staff last winter and together they led Calne to the Dorset and Wilts One play-offs.

With Watkins moving to London this summer to start a new job, Kearney, 39, has been handed the reins to the first team squad.

The former Chippenham flanker said: "I'm excited but I'm also very nervous about my first full season in charge. I guess you could say I'm like an expectant father.

"As far as the coaching goes I'm still very much at the drawing board stage. This will be a big learning curve for me."

With several key players leaving the club this summer, Kearney does not want to tempt fate with premature predictions of promotion.

Star centre Guthrie Holliday has moved to London for work, while former skipper Andy Donegan has retired from club rugby.

Said Kearney: "I can't plan too far ahead until I know what personnel we will have. Once pre-season training begins on July 20 I will have a much better idea.

"We have entered a second team in the league for the first time this season. That should allow me to select from a wider pool of players with some competitive experience."

Kearney wants to create a relaxed environment at Calne and had this message for his returning troops.

"I want everyone to enjoy their rugby this season. Let's go out with a positive attitude and see where that takes us," he said.