BRADFORD & Bingley are going back to basics in a bid to halt their slide.

The Bees, who have been relegated for two successive seasons, have swiftly generated some momentum under returning rugby supremo Martin Whitcombe, who has already decided on the men he wants to lead the first team in Yorkshire One and revealed his intention to run four senior teams.

Lock Brett Mitchell has been re-appointed as club skipper, while scrum half or full back Richard Scull is the vice-captain.

Whitcombe, who announced the news at a meeting in the clubhouse that was attended by around 30 players and ten non-players, said: "Scully is a tremendous player, a great lad and is Bees through and through.

"I have no doubts that he could and he will captain this club. However, I spoke with Brett and I was really impressed with the passion he put into his argument to be given another crack at the skipper's job."

Whitcombe, who was pleased with the turnout, added: "I wanted to give the lads a chance to chat with the new coaching staff and I wanted the meeting to be open to anyone of whatever ability who wants to be involved in this club.

"I was pleased with the feedback I received and I am already feeling very positive, although we are still a long way from the season starting."

In terms of increasing the player pool at Wagon Lane, which is at the heart of a good rugby club, Whitcombe said: "We are going back to basics – on and off the field.

"We are going to run three senior sides and a vets XV, and these sides will be open to anyone and everyone who wants to pull on a Bees shirt.

"I have said to the lads here that I want them to go home and ring or text a mate each who has been away from rugby for any period of time and try and get them to put their boots on next season.

"Outside of the first XV, I have asked Dan Cookson if he will lead the Barbarian XV.

"It is not that I don't rate Cookie as a player, but because I know he can be a rallying point for local lads to come and play for the Bees.

"We want to be a focal point for our community and we want to be a proper rugby club."

Some coaching sessions will begin immediately, with Whitcombe explaining: "Benny Greaves and Robin Kay will be holding some gym sessions down here at the club on Saturdays (9am-11am, starting tomorrow), and everyone who wants to learn some technique and wants to get stuck in is welcome.

"Ali Macdonald is going to start holding some sprint clinics on a Wednesday at 6pm, and Richard Tafa is organising some touch and pass after that (7.30pm).

"I can't say this often enough, but everyone who wants to play rugby at any level, whatever shape or size, is welcome to attend. We want more people playing rugby at the Bees again."

Pre-season training proper will start on Tuesday, July 7 (7pm).