GARY Skidmore believes he has a stronger squad now than he did last season, despite the loss of several key players.

The Biddestone boss was in defiant mood ahead of tomorrow's trip to Dawlish, his side's first ever game in the Screwfix League, and insisted they will be no laughing stock.

Just over a fortnight ago, Skidmore was concerned about the coming season after the departure of defenders Tim Tasker and Simon Gardner to Calne Town left his preparations in chaos.

He also had to deal with the loss of attacking midfielder Jamie Lyons to Corsham Town and felt his depleted squad could struggle after winning promotion from the Wiltshire League last season.

But the arrival of several new players and some promising performances in pre-season has brought the smile back to Skidmore's face.

He said: "I am excited about the season again. Just two weeks ago I was wondering where the team was going to go.

"Out of the 16 regular players we had in the squad last season, eight of them have left, and it is very encouraging that we are not any weaker than last year.

"In fact I would say we are stronger than last season and despite what many people have said about us, I think we will be ok and will certainly not be a laughing stock."

Ollie McAninch scored 14 goals from centre forward last season but after impressing at the back in the last couple of friendlies, he appears to have found a new position.

Skidmore said: "Ollie has been outstanding for us at the back. It was one area I was very worried about but he has come in and looked fantastic. He is quick, strong and can tackle"

Left sided Jack Nicholas and midfielder Luke Denham have moved to Biddestone from Corsham Town while Dean Brookman, defence, Andy Wileman, defence, Paul Pointer, midfield, Adam Gainey, striker, and Ben Leech, striker, have also joined the club.

Skidmore said: "We have also brought some of the under 18 players through and there is no doubt we have a very young squad."