Colchester Rugby Club coach Tim Grimsey believes his players should have no fears of taking a step into the unknown this season.

Following their promotion at the end of the last campaign, Colchester begin life in the division one north of the London Leagues tomorrow, when they will host Eton Manor at Mill Road (kick-off 3pm).

Having had a brief stay at that level just once before in the club’s history, it will be a new experience for their current crop of players.

However, Grimsey is backing his side – which is a mixture of experienced players and home-grown talent – to flourish in the new environment.

“We have nothing to fear in making this step up,” he said.

“But we have to believe we are there because we deserve to be there.

“Over the last two seasons, I have said that our philosphy has been to go out there and play rugby and that won’t change this year.

“If it isn’t broken, then don’t fix it."

See this week's Essex County Standard for more previews of Colchester Rugby Club's start to life back in division one of the London Leagues.