LECHLADE have continued to place youth at the heart of their recruitment as they prepare for a historic campaign in Premier One.

The Manor Ground side have enjoyed a meteoric rise through the West of England Premier League divisions, garnering three promotions in the last five seasons to reach the top tier for the first time.

Lechlade now find themselves rubbing shoulders with the likes of Bath, Bristol and Bridgwater in the top flight.

“Having watched the first team perform against the odds and win Premier Two with a team whose average age was just 20, it was clear to me that we were the best kept cricketing secret in the West of England,” said Arthur Jupp, who took over as chairman after last summer’s elevation.

“To now be competing in the same league as Bristol and Bath is an incredible achievement for a town of our size.

“What also struck me was the enormous amount of work we had to do off the field to get our infrastructure to match our on-field success.

“We needed to raise the profile of the club locally and beyond.”

The club has been bolstered by the close-season signings of 18-year-old batsman Ollie Forbes and an opening fast bowler from Yorkshire, Chris Harwood, 21.

Significantly, they have also retained the first team stars that won promotion, including former U19 World Cup-winning South African Bradley Dial.

The bulk of the side, which will again be captained by Freddie Martin, are still 21 or under, making them the youngest squad in the league, while new recruits have also been added to the 2nd XI in a bid to win promotion from Gloucestershire Division Four this season.

Lechlade begin their campaign in Premier One tomorrow with fellow promoted outfit Bedminster the visitors.