CHURCH believe they can put a disappointing season behind them last time out and go on and challenge for success this summer.

Last year, their joint bottom finish was a blow especially after being used to challenging near the top end of the table.

But pro Ruven Peiris has signed for his fourth season - and they will be expecting their usual 1000 runs off the Sri Lankan - and there has been changes in the side.

"The league position last year was disappointing and contrasts with the successes the club has had in recent years, most notably our cup final appearance in 2002 and winning the Holland Cup in 2004," said skipper Phil Sykes.

"There were, however, some positives and the outlook looks brighter for the new season.

"What is essentially a young squad of players all now have a further year's experience and several other changes should also help strengthen the side.

"Alec Holt returns, strengthening the batting line-up and he will also keep wicket in the absence of Sam Tucker, who will return to the side in June from university.

"Nasser Hussain has joined the club from Accrington and has first team experience and should strengthen our batting line up.

"And Andrew Bentley should be available for all our matches, which is a major boost given the number of games he missed last year due to exams.

"All these changes mean our starting line-up compared to last year looks stronger in both batting and bowling.

"Sam Holt will now have more opportunities and has already produced some good performances in our pre-season friendlies."

Skyes is struggling to predict a winner of the league this season after Burnley won it last year.

"Winners can be difficult to predict as the professionals impact and form at a club can have such a major impact.

"However, Bacup look a good bet given the quality and experience of their professional, Chris Harris."