Lewes and East Grinstead are ready to renew rivalries when the new hockey season begins on Sunday.

Following relegation last year, Lewes find themselves up against Grinstead in national league division two.

Grinstead have struck the first blow between the county's big guns by snapping up highly-rated young striker Steve Edmonds from Lewes.

Edmonds is one of ten new signings at Grinstead, who are looking to build on last season's third place finish by mounting a serious promotion challenge.

Lewes have been forced to regroup with five key players leaving and that may mean the power balance in Sussex shifting back to the north of the county.

Grinstead player-coach Ian Pattison said: "The atmosphere within the club is excellent. There is a real buzz about the place and a determination to do well.

"This time last year I had 12 players and two of those were goalkeepers. Now I have 30 and there is real competition for places.

"I would like to do better than last year. I think we can sustain a challenge in the league but it will be tough."

Edmonds is joined at Saint Hill by Seye Akande, Gregor Eiden (both Surbiton), John Sullivan (Hounslow), Kevin King, David Litchfield (both Firebrands), Alex Keen (ex-Purley), Guthrie Miller (ex-Bromley and Sevenoaks), Alex and Dominic Barnes (both Eastbourne).

Skipper Jon Perriss has retired while Ian Thomas has gone travelling for 18 months.

Other departures from Lewes include Stuart McConachie, who has joined the Police and will play regional league hockey for Mid Sussex, and Barnaby Stubbs, who has joined Bath.

Jo Hill has emigrated to Australia and Welsh international Simon Owen has decided not to play national league anymore.

Andy Pike is the only new face although Giles Collins returns after a year off with a back problem while Matt Lloyd is back at the club and Richard Shuttleworth also rejoins.

Captain Will Champness said: "The guys from last year's 16 will form the 11 and others will pick up the places. Our ideal aim is to go straight back up."