CHIPPENHAM travelled to Windsor to start their South West One East campaign and, after a tough first half, succumbed to a 29-14 defeat.

The away side weathered strong pressure from the hosts but Windsor gradually found their scoring groove and went in at the break 22-0 to the good.

Chippenham picked up in the second half and started to play attacking rugby, scoring a superb try from Brad Doggett that was converted by Harry Taylor, playing his first game back after a spell at university.

Another try quickly followed from Ben Riley, Taylor again landing the conversion.

With the score 22-14, Chippenham looked the better side and had several chances to close the gap, but a further Windsor try wrapped up the result.

PROMOTED Pewsey Vale have signed up six new players as they plot their course in Dorset & Wilts One North.

Number eight Phil Vallis has stood down as first-team captain, but continues as pack leader. His successor is last season’s top points scorer, fly-half James Haynes.

Pewsey coach Mick Haynes said: “We are looking to achieve a minimum of a mid-table finish. The new players are fitting in nicely and have a lot to offer.

“The current playing squad is exceptional in its unity of purpose, and support for each other. This and the standard of new players to the club, combined with last year’s success has changed the playing dynamic of the team.’’