With the new season almost upon us in the Hastings & District Table Tennis League, Division 2 looks likely to be competitive at both ends of the table.

After missing out on top spot last year, Bexhill D (formerly the E team) comprising Trevor Towner, John Bradbury and Brian Beaney will be hoping to go one better.

Alan Blackman has moved from Saints to Tackleway D, joining up with Owen Hatter, who drops down from Division 1, and Phil Toze and they should be in contention.

Saints C include Dick Copsey and Clive Drew-Clifton after their relegation from Division 1, but they will miss former team-mate Adam Keen who is not playing this season.

Pam Winter has left Tigers for Bexhill E, who will hope to see appearances from former Watts Cup winner Hector Castro after a long illness.

Hollington Academy D have temporarily lost the services of Bradley Heselden, who is at college and is replaced by Jeff Prince.

NALGO A led by Paul Hyland and Chris Woods’ Tigers B will both need to add consistency to become contenders, although capable of beating anyone on their night.

Promoted Saints D, led by Claire Bridges and Derek Brown, will be hoping to retain their status and will be joined by Bexhill G who were runners-up behind them in Division 3.  Barry and Dominic Goodson will be joined by ex-Tiger Malcolm Hilton after a year working away.

In Division 3, relegated Monarchs are favourites to make an instant return to Division 2 with their squad of Peter Harding, Dave Turnbull and Andrew Edwards.

Bexhill F have Harvey Webb, another returning from illness, to join wife Diane, Malcolm Glover and Ricky Knight.

Tackleway G, led by Kevin Eastman, will be more competitive in this Division after a tough time in Division 2.

Newcomers to the league and unknown quantity are McPhersons who will be based at the Academy.