STOURBRIDGE director of rugby Neil Mitchell says he will not be distracted by off-the-field issues as he continues to rejuvenate his squad ahead of the new season.

The club’s committee is facing a leadership challenge at this month’s AGM on July 29 from a group led by former player Robin Edwards.

However, Mitchell is unfazed by the potential upheaval and has moved to bring in 12 new faces at Stourton Park.

“I’m forging ahead regardless of what is going on behind the scenes,” he said.

“I’m aware of a group that would like to take the club in a different direction but this won’t change my plans to make the improvements the team needs.

“The understanding is that there is no intention from either side to curtail the progress of the first team.

“Despite what might be happening in the background, there is no reason to believe it will impact on the work I’m doing to get ready for the new season.”

The core of the new-look Stourbridge side will be made up of six players who have featured for the British Police side that Mitchell also coaches.

Half back trio Toby Handley, Jo Heatley and Chris Scott have all joined the Stour ranks as well as second row additions Chris Roddy and Liam Mather and outside centre Marc Marren.

They are joined by Moseley forward Stefan Thorp and Cinderford hooker Sam Wilkes. Along with current Stour man Mark George they made up last season’s England Counties front row.

Further additions come in the form of James Rodley, number eight Connor Nicholls, who joins from Cardiff Uni, former Coventry centre James Othuha and full back Joe Bridger from Exeter University.

“Significant change was needed after last season,” added Mitchell. “A lot of the players had been here for a while and the whole first team set-up needed rejuvenating, which I think we have done.

“We have been selective on who we have gone for and have made sure we have more of a physical presence, especially in the forward area.

“You can see there has been a significant change already in the pre-season training sessions.

“We have a good balance of youth and experience and I think we have made a statement with the players we have brought in.

“We needed a significant change in direction and we have got that. We are also working closely with the Lions to boost numbers in training. It has been very encouraging.”

The Stourton Park chief has also confirmed he is looking to add depth to the squad by bringing in a few more signings for the season gets underway.

Stour’s first pre-season warm-up game will be at home against Moseley on Friday, August 7 at 7.30pm.