NEW consultant Phil Vickery (pictured) says he has been impressed by what he has seen in his first month at Cinderford. Vickery joined the coaching set-up before Christmas and his arrival coincided with back-to-back wins over Birmingham & Solihull, Blackheath and Ealing.

He said: "After just a few weeks with the boys, and maybe a little naively on my part, I have been really quite impressed by their work rate, training ethic and performances – and pleased at their professionalism.

"There is so much good here and they are not far from being a fantastic team, with just a few little areas spoiling the scene at the moment, but the eagerness is there.

"My challenge is getting to grips with all the names and new faces but I am getting there.

"I have been at all the midweek training sessions and home games to date. I think it's working well. I provide another pair of eyes to the coaches and add my views into the pot, looking at all areas.

"I'm relishing the chance to work individually with a few of the guys.

"I've been in some pretty brutal rugby environments but the ambition and honesty I see among the players at Cinderford is refreshing and encouraging. They all want to achieve more."

Cinderford have added to their squad by bringing in back-row player Ben Sparks from Stourbridge.

Sparks was previously with the Worcester Academy and captained England Counties under-20s. Director of rugby Andy Deacon said: "He became available and it was too good a chance to miss someone of his pedigree and experience.

"He will add strength and depth to the pack, where we have picked up some injuries. It's important for us to provide a competitive environment that continues to push the players."