COLWYN Bay manager Craig Hogg stated his side are raring to go as they return to training this weekend.

The Seagulls’ begin preparations for the return to the Welsh domestic system on Saturday, which is the start of a six-week programme for a new look squad that will be looking to make an instant impact at FAW Northern Championship level.

It has been a summer of great change at the Four Crosses Construction Arena, with a host of new faces joining the club as the squad takes on a more local feel to years gone by.

Hogg, who is embarking on his first full season at the helm, said: “It feels like a life-time has passed since we finished the season off against Leek back in April, but we are all really eager to now get back to work at Parc Erias this weekend.

“We have a six-week schedule planned and the main target for us will be to improve player fitness, along with introducing the new lads to how we work and the way in which we will hope to play this season.

“A number of new faces will be reporting for training on Saturday and I’m looking forward to working with them and seeing the group knit together.”

Hogg also praised the impact made by newly appointed assistant Mark Orme and Mark Price have made during their initial time within the set-up, with the squad anticipating the announcement of their second tier fixtures in the coming weeks.

“Mark has played a big part in designing the pre-season session plans and Mike will now have a hugely important role working with our goalkeepers,” added Hogg.

“We have a number of good friendlies coming up within the program too, with the first couple of games being away from home, as much work has been undertaken on the pitch at the end of May.

“I’m certain the playing surface at Llanelian Road will be excellent again this year.

“The league and cup fixtures are due out in the coming weeks too and that’s something else we really cannot wait for.

“For now our focus will be on getting fit and being prepared for what lies ahead, with a lot of hard work we hope to be ready for our first competitive game on August 3.”