EAST Lancs Paper Mill captain Paul Hewart says the club are ready to embrace the challenge after being promoted two levels in the new Greater Manchester Cricket League structure.

Hewart's side won Division Four West this season, racking up more than 100 points along the way, and also made it to the last four of the Championship Cup.

They were expecting to take up a place in Division Three next year, but after the GMCL completed a reorganisation to fit in new teams from the Pennine League, they were offered the chance to step up to Division Two.

ELPM will now compete alongside local neighbours Elton and Elton Vale in Division Two A.

Hewart said: "We were approached by the league a couple of weeks ago asking if it's something we would consider.

"It was based on how well we did in the league and cup competitions, beating teams from higher divisions, as well as the quality of the first-team players we have on our books and the ambitions of the club.

"It's exciting times, but it will be a potentially challenging season for us with some very tough games."

Hewart is confident, however, that the players in the squad are up to the task.

"I believe we have a good first team and hopefully our new league position will help us to attract more players.

"In my view, this can only benefit the club.

"We also hope to improve the quality of our second XI and our newly formed third XI, which will potentially play in the Sunday league from next season ??

"We are always on the look out for new players and anybody interested in joining can contact myself for details via our website, Facebook page or on Twitter."

To find out more about the opportunities at ELPM, visit www.elpm.co.uk