PLANS are already moving ahead towards the new hockey season.

Last season proved to be a positive one from the perspective of Ruthin Ladies Hockey Club, with a third placed finish in Division Two of the North Wales Hockey League.

Ruthin failed to win any of their first three matches, but they claimed seven victories in their next eight matches to move to the verge of promotion.

The final game of the season was to be the decider for promotion and Ruthin needed to defeat leaders Penllyn by three goals.

However, it was Bala-based Penllyn who won the match to finish top of the standings, while Ruthin finished third.

In all, 27 players turned out during the season.

"The commitment and willingness to play week after week has been incredible," said captain Paula Duffy.

New additions to the squad Emily Retalick, Sallyanne Hall and Tara Mason did well, while Ruthin welcomed back the likes of Catrin Roberts, Billie Davies, Helena McHugh and Gwyneth Day.

Meanwhile, Ruthin’s junior squad members remain impressive, with Harriet Jones, Llinos Jones, Llio Jones and Llio Thomas all being valued members of the squad.

More success has been seen with juniors making the transition into the first team via Megan Rees-Hughes, Heledd Beech, Leah Jones, Heidi Palin and Paige Hughes.

All of them successfully made the step-up into the first team.

Ruthin recently held the end-of-season awards night.

Awards: Most improved player (junior), Harriet Jones; Top goalscorer, Claerwen Render; Most improved player (senior), Emily Retallick; Players' player, Eleri Jones.