Paddy Holyday said it is a 'great honour' to become the new captain of Uphill Castle CC.

Holyday has replaced Andy Lewellyn, who will continue to play, at the helm and will be supported by vice-captain Luke Bliss.

“I can’t wait to get started. I’ve been vice-captain for a couple of years, I’ve captained the seconds, I’m ready for it,” he said.

“Llewy (Llewellyn) is still going to play, offering support here and there and we’ve got 'Blissy' as vice-captain. The club is in the right place at the moment.

“It’s a great honour, my childhood club. I’ve been here since I was five or six, played up all the way through the junior teams, fourth, third, second, first team now. It’s a great honour, part of my family now and I can’t wait to get started.”

Uphill have also appointed Phil Loud as their new coach.

Loud first joined in 1982 and has held a number of roles, including as a player and coach.

He was also made an honorary life member around 10 years ago for his services to the club.

“Loudy is brilliant, he has done it all at this club,” added Holyday.

“He has coached, played, captained, he is a club legend really. He will help the first team and the second team, all the teams really, juniors as well.

“He will be a massive impact, he will help the other clubs as well, help them improve. Great to have him on board and really good to get started.”

Uphil begin their Somerset Premier season with a trip to Taunton to take on Staplegrove on Saturday for the first of their two 'massive games' this weekend.

Holyday's side welcome Timsbury to the Castle for the second round of the Voneus Village Cup on Sunday, after a walkover win over Purnell.

“They (Staplegrove) have just come down from WEPL, so don’t know really what to expect on Saturday but we will have a strong team out, do well and then Sunday’s Village Cup next round at home,” Holyday said.

“Two massive games for the first team. Hopefully it will be a good start to the season.”