IAN Eaton has paid tribute to Stuart Hayes on the eve of the new county league season, insisting his role in helping Weaverham to the highest level in the club’s history will not be forgotten.

A long-term hand injury will prevent Hayes from playing a part on the pitch, leaving Eaton to take over as first-team captain at Wallerscote Road.

“Stu’s been our leader on the square,” said Eaton.

“His contribution as a player will be missed, though it will be great to have him at the ground on match-day.”

The Russets, promoted as Division Two champions after winning 15 of 22 matches last term, are confident they can compete in the competition’s second tier.

Antiguan all-rounder Wilden Cornwall, who made history in 2014 as the first man to retain the Division Two player of the year award, has agreed to play again this summer.

Weaverham have also recruited opening batsman Matthew Jamieson from Bramhall.

Eaton said: “There are nerves in the group, but also genuine excitement because it’s a massive thing for the club to be starting a season at this level.

“We’re quietly confident we can hold our own; we’ve a strong batting line-up that has been improved by Matty’s arrival, and knowing that Wilden will be joining us again is a big boost.

“His know-how was invaluable in helping us to finish the job last season, and I know it will be again.

“He’s the best overseas signing I’ve played with, not just because of his statistics with bat and ball.

“We knew he was a first-class player, but his biggest contribution has been away from the field – he’s there every night during the season helping other guys to improve their game.”

Weaverham start the season at home to neighbours Davenham, who finished eighth on their Division One debut last time out.

Eaton said: “They started strongly last season, and weren’t a million miles away from the better teams in the section.

“We can learn from that.

“More importantly, we want to do ourselves justice.

“When I was promoted with Oakmere [in 2008], we went up perhaps fearing the worst.

“It’s a complete contrast at Weaverham; our outlook is positive.

“We’ll find our level, but for now we’ll keep looking up and see how far we go.”