Swindon have lost the services of talented fly-half Adam Westall for their latest assault on Southern Counties North.

The youngster, a product of the Greenbridge Road club's youth system, has gone to try his luck at Forest of Dean-based National Division Three South side Lydney.

Skipper Stuart Cock admitted: "Adam's gone to try his luck over there and we wish him the best he is a player we will miss.''

But there is still plenty of experience at hand this time, with ex-first team captains Ian Binfield and Martin Popowicz both veteran campaigners masterminding Swindon's bid year.

The target will be to improve on a sixth place finish last year which steered Swindon well clear of relegation trouble without threatening the leaders.

There have also been a couple of changes to onfield leadership for the coming season.

Andy Morley has stepped down as 1st XV skipper after three years in charge.

Replacing him is Cock, who takes on first-team captaincy for the second time.

Cock will be aided by scrum-half and vice-captain Jimmer Courtney.

The skipper admitted: "After a strong showing last season, we have high hopes of gaining promotion.

"However, it will be tough and promotion will require a lot of hard work and determination. The squad believes it is an achievable target.''

Prodigal sons Guy Stirler and Nick Warren return to the Swindon stable this season.

Stirler's elusive strong running will bolster the already formidable-looking three-quarter line.

Meanwhile, Warren's trademark bullock-like charges often cause problems for opposition defences.

Young players to watch include scrum-half Jamie Whatcott, hooker Darren New and second rows Steve Carr and Michael Newport, who will be looking to build on impressive seasons and start to really stake a claim on first team players.

Jason Williams stays on as 2nd XV captain, facing a challenging season with his side being entered in the new Dorset and Wilts 2nd XV League.

The job of running the 3rd XV once again falls to the combined efforts of Kenny Hopkins and Dave O'Donahue, who will be looking to combine youth and experience to have a successful season.

Swindon's league campaign begins on Saturday with a home clash against Bicester.