PERSHORE Phoenix are looking forward to their second season in the British Dragonboat Association National League Premier Division, starting at Liverpool on Sunday, May 4.

The club hope to improve on their inaugural campaign in the Premier when they finished in a creditable seventh position.

Club captain Andrew Forrest said Phoenix members tried to train hard over the winter despite being denied access to the water for long periods due to flooding.

He added: "Our first season in the Premier was tough but enjoyable. We need to be focused in order to survive in what will be a highly competitive division this season."

The club, who were National Standard Division champions in 2012 and participated in the Queen's Royal Jubilee Pageant, are looking for new members, both male and female.

Phoenix meet to train at Pershore Football Club at 10am on Sundays and 6.30pm on Wednesdays.

Free have-a-go sessions will be held on Thursday evenings at Arden Sailing Club, Defford, from May 8.

Anyone interested can call Forrest on 01905-455448.