Worthing United boss Geoff Raynsford has declared: "Our season starts now."

It has been a disappointing start to the season for Raynsford and his side but the manager feels their fortunes are about to change.

The squad have been strengthened by the signing of former Albion apprentice Neil Francis from Worthing plus the return of Graham Waller from Shoreham.

Raynsford has also made an approach for Ringmer's former Shoreham defender Paul Curtis.

He said: "We have had a slow start because we have had a lot of people on holiday and with cricket commitments. Everybody is back now and I feel our season will start now."

Former Albion manager Barry Lloyd joined the club's impressive coaching team in the summer and Raynsford believes he is making an important contribution.

He said: "Barry Lloyd has been superb for the club and for me. I have learned so much from Barry as a manager and the players are learning as well."

Ringmer's attempts to sign a new goalkeeper have been stifled.

With Jamie Bryant sidelined by injury for at least three months, manager Glen Geard has been forced to play promising 16-year-old Sam Figg between the posts.

Geard last week signed veteran keeper Keith Cheal but he was immediately recalled by Withdean where he is also registered.

Meanwhile, Ringmer have completed the signing of Peacehaven midfielder Paul Preece and have also made an approach for Hassocks youngster Luke Flomo.

Whitehawk player-manager Ian Chapman is resigned to losing top scorer Ollie Rowland but the former Albion player insists he is quite happy about it.

Chapman speaks in glowing terms about the former England under-18 international and ex-Crystal Palace player.

He said: "Ollie is an exceptional talent. He's with us for the time being but hopefully a pro club will come in for him because he is a really good player.

"I think he could do a job at a pro club and people are watching him. Hopefully someone will come in for him.

"Even though he is great for us, this club is a stepping stone for him to go on to bigger things."

Upper Beeding will be without skipper Jon Burgess for several weeks as he is facing a cartilage operation.