CINDERFORD are one of only three clubs who have committed to playing in this year's County Cup.

They will play matches against Dings Crusaders and Old Patesians in a round-robin format.

The Foresters were supposed to play Dings in the cup last Sunday, but like all other games in the district it fell foul of the weather.

Cinderford director of rugby Andy Deacon said: "I'm a great champion of local rugby and I'd like to help keep it going, but league rugby is everything nowadays.

"We're fortunate at Cinderford to have a big enough squad to cope with the extra matches."

Deacon will be hoping that scrum-halves Luke Carter and Danny Pointon stay fit following the departure of Ben Draper (pictured).

The Kiwi has returned home to New Zealand after being offered a new job.

Deacon said: "Ben has done pretty well for us but he's a PE teacher and he wasn't getting enough supply work. He put his CV out there and got offered a very good job in New Zealand, which he had to take in the current financial climate. Rugby is not his full-time job."

Flanker Chris McNeil is also set to miss the rest of the season with a neck injury, but prop James Brooks has rejoined the club and second-row Roger Birkin has come in from Clevedon.

Deacon said: "Chris just needs rest so he won't be back until next season. James is a very good player and I'm pleased to have him back.

"We've got four or five good young props.

"Roger wants to step up and is probably one for next year. He's a strong ball carrier but is a bit green and needs to get in better shape.

"We've also got Ben Sparks, a number eight, waiting in the wings. He looks good in training but the boys who are playing have found some form so he's got to wait for his chance."

Cinderford return to league action this Saturday at home to Wharfedale.