David Ripley fears Adam Rossington and Ben Sanderson will both miss the rest of the season after the pair picked up injuries in Northants' defeat at Nottinghamshire.

Rossington sustained a broken thumb and Sanderson a hamstring problem as injury was added to insult for the County at Trent Bridge.

Ripley's men were beaten by 163 runs by the current Specsavers County Championship Division Two leaders.

And the misery was made worse by the fact Northants left Trent Bridge with minus two points having endured a deduction for a slow over rate.

It was a hugely disappointing four days for the County, whose hopes of promotion have taken a big hit.

“I thought this would be a good benchmark for us because they are the best team in the league and they have an extremely strong batting line-up, so it was a good test but obviously we came up short," Ripley said.

"I think the margin of defeat is the biggest disappointment because we were well beaten.

"I think Riki Wessels (who hit 69 in Nottinghamshire's first innings and 116 in the second) was the big difference, with his two individual contributions. Without that it might have been tighter, but the disappointment is over our first innings batting.

"We challenged our batters to put their hands up and put some runs on the board and they haven’t done that.

“On the injury front, Adam Rossington has a broken thumb but Alex Wakely’s x-ray has come back clear, so hopefully he’ll be okay for the next game (Northants host Sussex from Tuesday).

"Ben Sanderson’s hamstring injury means he will be out. He’s having a scan tomorrow but you kind of fear the worst, so two of them might be out for the rest of the season.

"We’ll cling to some hope that they might be back but it looks unlikely.”

Northants had managed to bowl Notts out for 213 in the first innings, with Muhammad Azharullah (5-63) and Richard Gleeson (4-38) impressing.

But Notts fought back with the ball, dismissing the County for 141 as only Josh Cobb (46 not out) provided any real resistance.

Wessels' superb 116 from just 88 balls put the home side in total control as they declared on 344 for nine.

And Northants, without Rossington due to his thumb injury, were then dismissed for 253.

The agony was exacerbated by the points deduction for a slow over rate, meaning Northants have now lost a total of five points this season.

And Ripley said: “That’s not good.

"We’ve just spoken about it as a group. We talk about it far too much and we need some actions.

"That’s going to hit us because we are going to lose points from this game and go back with minus points.

"In the past we’ve not been promoted out of this division by just one point, so every point is vital and we’ve just lobbed four or five away.”

Have you ever gone out and bought something only to realise you've got it at home?

Well, that could be considered the case for Saints ahead of the new season, which starts with a mouthwatering fixture against Saracens at Twickenham on Saturday.

After a sluggish start to last season, the team was crying out for extra attacking impetus.

Moves were made for South Africa scrum-half Cobus Reinach, Blues fly-half Piers Francis and Australia back Rob Horne.

Saints fans salivated over the prospect of those Super Rugby players adding spark to a backline that seemed to be totally lacking in inspiration.

But then a sea change occurred.

Alan Dickens moved from the role of defence coach to attack coach, stepping up after the departure of Alex King in October.

And a few months down the line, Saints were playing the kind of rugby their fans expect.

They were direct, slick and keen to move the ball through the hands, shifting sides around at will.

Players such as scrum-half Nic Groom and flying full-back Ahsee Tuala came to the fore, with Nafi Tuitavake and Harry Mallinder, who impressed at 10, also starting to excel.

And though the results didn't always come, Saints were agonisingly close, pushing the likes of Bath, Leicester, Wasps and Saracens all the way.

Those teams needed last-gasp points to see off Jim Mallinder's men, who, with a little more composure in the closing stages, could well have sneaked into the top four.

Saints have continued their attacking improvement during pre-season, putting 11 tries past the Dragons and nine past Ulster.

And while you can't read much into pre-season results, you can read something into performances and the style of play.

Saints do not want to revert to blood, sweat and tears rugby this season.

They want to add to the confidence they gained from three successive wins at the conclusion of the previous campaign, which catapulted them into the Champions Cup.

And what the new players will give is not only extra ideas, but added depth.

All in all, you can guarantee this season certainly won't be a boring one.

But there is no doubt Saints have to address the defensive issues that blighted their chances of making the top four last time round.

Between February and April they conceded 30 or more points in five of eight matches.

They discovered that with attacking adventure comes defensive danger.

And they will need to strike a better balance this time round.

But if they can do that, they can not only be the Great Entertainers, but they can also find the consistency they have been so desperate for during the past two seasons.

Let's get it right - finishes of fifth and seventh since they topped the table in 2015 have not gone down well with players, coaches or fans.

Saints expect more and if they can make a statement in the early stages of the campaign, they will set themselves up nicely for the season.

But that is a big if.

Because games against Saracens, Leicester and Bath in the opening three weeks of the campaign are as tough as they come.

And Saints will need to be at their best from the off.

There is no doubt that the pack has been weakened by the departure of Louis Picamoles, who was the supporters' and players' player of the year last time round.

Other men will have to step up to cover, with a new international player not arriving until January.

But Mitch Eadie, a summer signing from Bristol, has shown promise during pre-season and Teimana Harrison always excels when he is given a run at No.8.

It is all about putting faith in players, especially the youngsters, with high hopes for the likes of Lewis Ludlam, David Ribbans, Tom Stephenson, Harry Mallinder and, in particular, Tom Collins, this season.

Collins has looked razor-sharp during pre-season and he loves a try.

If given the chance, Saints' young guns can fire this time round.

And the added freedom that the team was given towards the end of last season can only aid their development.

Saints are not being tipped by many to contend for the title this season.

But with England captain Dylan Hartley, who knows a bit about leading teams to trophies, in charge and a group of hungry players at their disposal, you never know.

Saints have not met their high standards in recent times, but if they can get off to a flying start, there is no reason why they shouldn't this season.

Strap yourselves in because it looks like it's going to be quite a ride.

The collision took place on near the BP Truck Stop, at about 5.40am involving a motorcyclist and at least other vehicles.

Sadly the motorcyclist died at the scene of the collision near to the village of Lilbourne.

The A5 near Lilbourne re-opened a short time ago.

Officers investigating the incident would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed it, or who may have any information regarding it.

Witnesses or anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Drivewatch Hotline on 0800 174615, quoting the incident number 86.

With five games of the season remaining, reigning champions Old Northamptonians have hit the top of the Hevey Building Supplies NCL Premier Division.

On what could prove to be a pivotal weekend, Rob White’s side took full advantage of the top two cancelling each other out in the big game.

While morning leaders Rushton and Peterborough were drawing a Bretton Gate, ONs were hammering rock-bottom Wollaston and they leapfrogged their rivals to open up a narrow three point lead at the top.

Skipper White smashed 138 as ONs made 263 for six against Wollaston, before Tom Heathfield claimed six for 220 to dismiss Wollaston for just 65.

The big game was edged by Peterborough, who now go second in the table, after they smashed 274 for five with Asim Butt hitting 130.

Rushton settled for a draw, with Ben Coddington making an unbeatne 56 as they closed on 174 for five.

Full results below,

Results, Saturday, August 26

PREMIER DIVISION

Finedon Dolben 139-0 (Callum Berrill 55no, Sean Davis 76no) beat Brixworth 138 all out (Fred Newborough 35, Thomas Minney 3-20) by 10 wkts

Geddington 205 all out (Amit Dhadwal 44, Luke Cummins 31, Charlie Gingell 46, Mark Wolstenholme 4-47) lost to Horton House 228-9 (Ewan Cox 113, Andrew Neat 36, Tiann Raubenheimer 3-72) by 23 runs

Northampton Saints 138 all out (Harry Adair 63, Oliver Warwick 4-34) lost to Rushden 313-6 (Sam Kumar 34, Chanaka Ruwansiri 170, William Bates 35no) by 175 runs

Peterborough 274-5 (Asim Butt 130, David Clarke 54) drew with Rushton 174-5 (Ben Coddington 56no, Joe Dawborn 3-43)

Stony Stratford 169 all out (Alex Strong 51, Bashrat Hussain 4-42) lost to Oundle 171-9 (Bashrat Hussain 61no, Alex Strong 6-46) by 1 wkt

Wollaston 65 all out (Tom Heathfield 6-20) lost to Old Northamptonians 263-6 (Rob White 138, Thomas Hafil 51, Tom Doyle 4-57) by 198 runs

DIVISION ONE

Brigstock 156 all out (Ian Sharp 42, John Maynard 3-37) beat Burton Latimer 93 all out (Tashwin Lukas 7-20) by 63 runs

Desborough 251-5 (Simon Renshaw 101, Wayne Steed 50) lost to East Haddon 252-4 (Craig Burger 37, Robbie Povey 85, Stephan Joubert 60) by 6 wkts

Loddington 128 all out (Josh Plowright 69, George Carr 4-22, Adam Davies 3-27) beat Isham 59 all out (Ben Roberts 3-18, Nicholas Herbert 4-7) by 69 runs

Old Northamptonians IIs 120-8 (Alex King 3-44) drew with Wellingborough Town 170 all out (Darren Trotter 44, Amrit Basra 5-38)

Overstone Park 258-5 (Charles Eddwards 127, Jordan Capel 35, Matthew Sunter 50) beat Finedon Dolben IIs 161 all out (Tom Swann 64, Sheel Patel 4-39) by 97 runs

Thrapston 190-4 beat Weekley and Warkton 188 all out by 6 wkts

DIVISION TWO

Earls Barton 131 all out (Adrian Flynn 4-32, Jack Fuller 3-38) lost to Long Buckby 240-6 (Duncan Harris 81, David Holmes 42, Sam Bevin 32no, Kyle Lawrence 4-61) by 109 runs

Great Houghton 217-7 (Luke Mcafee 36, Chris taylor 5-59) lost to St Crispins Ryelands 221-2 (Thomas Robotham 85, Jack Goodman 111no) by 8 wkts

Kettering 150 all out (Theo Brooks 30, Wesley Langdon 33no, Michael Hosking 4-40, James Burrows 3-40) lost to Old 188-8 (Ben Street 33, Sam Street 76, Sivam Popat 3-43) by 38 runs

Old Wellingburians 189-6 (Matthew Ingram 42, Shahrayz Nazim 30, Simon Denton 42no) drew with Irthlingborough Town 225-8 (Martin Hills 49, Neil White 50, James Stevenson 37, Nehal Patel 7-46)

Rushden IIs 82-9 (Connor Parnell 5-32) lost to Peterborough IIs 83-0 (Kyle Medcalf 48no, Daniel Oldham 35no) by 10 wkts

Wellingborough Indians 227-6 (Raul Patel 104no) beat Northampton Saints IIs 225-7 (Affie Hussain 33, Elliot Deeks 50) by 4 wkts

DIVISION THREE

Brixworth IIs 285-3 (Phil Perryman 121, Paul Gardner 32, Dave Marlow 110) beat Heyford 189 all out (Rory Small bone 55, James Edwards 43, Dave Marlow 3-68) by 96 runs

Horton House IIs 316-7 (Alex Walker 102, Alex Chalcraft 100, Rizwan Alam 36no) beat Great Oakley 75 all out (Aaron Bell 33no, Will Smith 5-34, Nick Walker 3-40) by 241 runs

Kislingbury 131-2 (Byron Wyngard 56, Patrick Morris 50) beat Wollaston IIs 129 all out (Nathan Jones 3-35, Eddie Fowler 4-42) by 8 wkts

Old Grammarians 154-2 beat Irchester 153 all out by 8 wkts

Oundle IIs 195-3 (Guy Bolsover 109no, Colin Ray 40no) beat Old Northamptonians IIIs 194 all out (Dave Watkin 80, Peter Wilson 3-58, Joe Charlton 4-38) by 7 wkts

Rothwell 174-7 (Faraz Ulaq 52, Rohin Thapar 41, James Chambers 46no, Joshua Whitehead 3-56) beat Stony Stratford IIs 172 all out (Ben Mitchell 33, Jamie Baxter 48) by 3 wkts

DIVISION FOUR

Bowden 275-7 (Karl Pollard 82, Daniel Madi 49, Charlie Standley 38, Alex Firth 37, Oliver Hanwell 5-77) beat Grendon and Prims 165 all out (Julian Barford 42, Oliver Hanwell 35) by 110 runs

Raunds 333-6 (Ben Simpson 155, Lewis Gates 58, Joshua Andic 51, Lee Morgan 30) beat Podington 249 all out (Kieran Fowler 99, Ian Hart 85, Ollie Bates 4-41) by 84 runs

Rushton IIs 166 all out (Peter Frankcam 39, John Fletcher 36) lost to Weldon 167-2 (Thomas Chenery 75, Joshua McLellan 47no) by 8 wkts

St Crispins Ryelands IIs 133-8 (David Hylands 50) beat Finedon Dolben IIIs 129 all out (Joe Grafikowski 32, Ben Harris 6-24) by 2 wkts

Wellingborough Town IIs 189-7 drew with Overstone Park IIs 278-6

West Haddon and Guilsborough 53 all out (Lee Smith 3-15, James Schofield 3-12) lost to Geddington IIs 54-2 by 8 wkts

DIVISION FIVE

Bold Dragoon 210-6 (Russell Heyworth 58, Mark Holliday 32no) beat Stony Stratford IIIs 109 all out (Seb Lord 5-16) by 101 runs

Cogenhoe 103 all out (Henry Swallow 61, Tom McNally 3-20) lost to Thrapston IIs 216-6 (Andy Stoker 38, Ryan Wright 34, Braeden Bettles 51no) by 113 runs

Northampton Saints IIIs 226-5 (Glenn Thompson 61, Joseph Leah 61, Tom Law 51no) beat Kettering IIs 134 all out (Rob Starsome 51n, Nasakat Hussain 4-34) by 92 runs

S and L Corby 186 all out (Danny Harris 4-47) beat Higham Ferrers 166 all out (Steven Matera 76, Dean Czyz 30) by 20 runs

Weekley and Warkton IIs 277-4 (Lee Fox 80, Jonathan Lamb 99, Navinder Nangla 68no) drew with Rothwell IIs 212-9 (Stephen O’Brien 60, Ross Parker 36no)

Yelvertoft 79 all out (Will Negus 32, Ashley Field 6-26) lost to Kempston 206-5 (Mark Russell 34, Leon Harvey 50, Nigel Thorn 61no) by 127 runs

DIVISION SIX

Burton Latimer IIs 254-5 (Laura Tonks 34, Luke Styman 82no, John Boss 45, Joshua Coleman 30) drew with Loddington IIs 192-3 (Ryan Hawthorn 107no)

Carrib United 105-9 (Jitesh Thanawalla 4-27) lost to Harlestone 108-3 (James Ball 32, John Marshall 34, Amir Ahmed 36) by 7 wkts

East Haddon IIs 150-1 (Matthew Coe 35, Simon Smith 4-21) drew with Obelisk 123-9 (Michael Charnley 42)

Irthlingborough Town IIs 166-6 (Ben Potkins 33, Ryan Simpson 50, Anil Joshi 5-41) lost to Wellingborough Indians IIs 168-6 (Sunny Patel 84no) by 4 wkts

Podington IIs 176-9 (Adam Tee 31, Joshua Ozier 35) drew with Isham IIs 189-9 (Ian Kelland 41, Simon Court 31)

DIVISION SEVEN

Great Oakley IIs 176 all out (Reece 3-0) lost to St Michaels 74 178-1 (Chris Goodson 32, Anthony Webb 103no) by 9 wkts

Gretton 68-9 (Tommy Reid 9-19) beat S and L Corby IIs 65 all out (Ryan Dunn 34, Ian Ward 3-5) by 1 wkt

Horton House IIIs 112 all out (David Morgan 32, Sean Carter 4-31) lost to Earls Barton IIs 114-5 (Paul Smith 34, Daniel Jackson 38) by 5 wkts

Old IIs 256-8 (James Hope 30, Ian Hamilton 63, Daniel Barton 3-59) drew with Desborough IIs 150-7 (Christopher Barton 59)

Spencer Bruerne 31-0 beat Mears Ashby 30 all out (Sam Heath 5-11, Matthew Law 5-16) by 10 wkts

DIVISION EIGHT

Abington 220-4 (Jon Hill 31, Gareth Edinton 100no) beat Oundle IIIs 10 all out (Jon Hill 5-6) by 210 runs

Barton Seagrave 81 all out (Chris Lack 6-27) lost to Raunds IIs 149 all out (Stephen Crane 42, Chris Wright 3-24) by 68 runs

Bugbrooke 140 all out (Samuel bird 36, Joshua Sidebottom 31) beat St Michaels 91 all out by 49 runs

Old Northamptonians IVs 212 all out (Rhys Noble 110, Elliott Baker 3-45) drew with Bowden IIs 121-8 (George Hudson 3-31)

DIVISION NINE

Hardingstone 182-6 (Robert Anderson 54, Phillip Monkman 36no) lost to Brixworth IIIs 183-5 (Christian Timm 39, David Bodily 52) by 5 wkts

Heyford IIs 114-8 lost to Great Houghton IIs 174 all out by 60 runs

Long Buckby IIs 169-3 (Chirstian Brient 85no) beat Old Grammarians IIs 168-8 (Nathan Joshi 53, Joe Oliver 4-40) by 7 wkts

St Crispins Ryelands IIIs 114-3 (Lawrence Knowles 49) beat Old Wellingburians IIs 110 all out (Steve Adams 6-19) 7 wkts

Wellingborough Town IIIs 40 all out lost to Irchester IIs 41-2 by 8 wkts

DIVISION 10

Harlestone IIs 146-5 beat Brigstock IIs 142 all out by 5 wkts

Weldon IIs 115 all out (Dave Freebody 43, Thomas Ray 4-24) lost to Little Harrowden 116-6 (Thomas Ray 34no) by 4 wkts

Wollaston IIIs 279-5 (Andy Luck 40, Paul Jones 90, Nathan Richards 58, Craig Boddington 32no) beat Rushden IIIs 130-8 (Scott Russell 45no) by 149 runs

DIVISION 11

Finedon Dolben IVs 122-1 (Matthew Carroll 53n, Darren Moors 32, Matt Henson 30no) beat Burton Latimer IIIs 120-8 by 9 wkts

Thrapston IIIs 131-4 (Graeme Ackroyd 32no) beat St Crispins Ryelands IVs 126 all out (Stephen Leak 68, Stephen Bennett 4-16) by 6 wkts

DIVISION 12

Irthlingborough Town IIIs 194-6 (Bob McDonald 40, Vince Thomas 46, Oliver Coleman 66) beat Bold Dragoon IIs 190-7 (Saad Ahmad 41, James Hurrell 34, Phil Austin 62no) by 4 wkts

Mears Ashby IIs 160-8 (Stuart Gray 39, Tony Adams 3-52) beat Grange Park 158 all out (Justin Benedetti 30, Mark ury 41, Steven Steel 33) by 2 runs

Obelisk IIs lost to Old Grammarians IIIs by forfeit

St Michaels 74 IIs 168 all out (Nick Croft 39, Jack Bradbury 3-21) beat Bugbrooke IIs 76 all out (Liam Jackson 55no) by 92 runs

Stony Stratford IVs 186-3 (Samuel Cole 42, Yash Tailor 48, Ian West 45) beat Hardingstone IIs 144 all out (Jamie Hartnett 45, Samuel Cole 3-27) by 42 runs

DIVISION 13

Brixworth IVs 127-4 (Charlie Batchelor 54, Richard Carrick 32no) beat Thrapston IVs 124 all out (Andrew Thomas 35, Mark Thomas 48) by 6 
wkts

Isham Zingari 100-9 (David Hobbs 71, Lee Walters 3-27) lost to Spencer Bruerne IIs 103-2 (Mark Behan 40no, Keith Finson 44no) by 8 wkts

Kettering IVs 227 all out (Jamie Ducker 51, Dnaiel Folgate 34, Sean Turner 43) beat Stony Stratford Vs 105 all out (Bilal Ahmed 42) by 122 runs

FIXTURES

Saturday, September 2, 2017

Premier Division: Brixworth v Geddington, Horton House v Wollaston, Old Northamptonians v Stony Stratford, Peterborough v Saints, Rushden v Finedon Dolben, Rushton v Oundle.

Division One: Burton Latimer v Desborough, East Haddon v Loddington, Finedon Dolben IIs v Isham, Overstone Park v Old Northamptonians IIs, Weekley & Warkton v Brigstock, Wellingborough Town v Thrapston.

Division Two: Irthlingborough v Great Houghton, Kettering v Old Wellingburians, Long Buckby v Wellingborough Indians, Northampton Saints IIs v Rushden IIs, Old v Peterborough IIs, St Crispin & Ryelands v Earls Barton.

Division Three: Great Oakley v Brixworth IIs, Heyford v Old Grammarians, Old Northamptonians IIIs v Irchester, Oundle IIs v Rothwell, Stony Stratford IIs v Kislingbury, Wollaston IIs v Horton House IIs.

Division Four: Finedon Dolben IIIs v Wellingborough Town IIs, Geddington IIs v St Crispin & Ryelands IIs, Grendon & Prims v Rushton IIs, Podington v Overstone Park IIs, Raunds v Bowden, Weldon v West Haddon & Guilsborough.

Division Five: Cogenhoe v S&L Corby, Higham Ferrers v Bold Dragoon, Kempston v Weekley & Warkton IIs, Rothwell IIs v Northampton Saints IIIs, Stony Stratford IIIs v Yelvertoft, Thrapston IIs v Kettering IIs.

Division Six: Isham IIs v Burton Latimer IIs, Loddington IIs v Irthlingborough IIs, Obelisk v Harlestone, Wellingborough Indians IIs v Carrib United.

Division Seven: Desborough IIs v Gretton , Earls Barton IIs v S&L Corby IIs, Horton House IIIs v Spencer Bruerne, Mears Ashby v Great Oakley IIs, St Michaels 74 v Old IIs.

Division Eight: Bowden IIs v Raunds IIs, Old Northamptonians IVs v Abington, Oundle IIIs v Bugbrooke, Overstone Park IIIs v Barton Seagrave, St Michaels (N) v West Haddon & Guilsborough IIs.

Division Nine: Brixworth IIIs v St Crispin & Ryelands IIIs, Great Houghton IIs v Old Wellingburians IIs, Irchester IIs v Long Buckby IIs, Old Grammarians IIs v Hardingstone.

Division 10: Brigstock IIs v Rushden IIIs, Geddington IIIs v Wollaston IIIs, Harlestone IIs v Weekley & Warkton IIIs, Kettering IIIs v Weldon IIs.

Division 11: Horton House IVs v Cogenhoe IIs, Kislingbury IIs v Higham Ferrers IIs, St Crispin & Ryelands IVs v Overstone Park IVs.

Division 12: Bold Dragoon IIs v Grange Park, Bugbrooke IIs v Mears Ashby IIs, Hardingstone IIs v St Michaels 74 IIs, Old Grammarians IIIs v Stony Stratford IVs.

Division 13: Barby IIIs v S&L Corby IIIs, Spencer Bruerne IIs v Kettering IVs, Stony Stratford Vs v Old IIIs, Thrapston IVs v Isham Zingari

Back in July, Luther Burrell became a father for the first time.

And it seems the experience has already taught him plenty about himself.

"What it has shown me is that when I'm very, very sleep deprived and I'm absolutely knackered, I can still compete with some unbelievable athletes that we've got here and if anything that's going to translate onto the field," Burrell says as he reflects on his first pre-season as a dad.

"When I'm in a dark place on the field I can know I've been in worse situations and it's going to push me on.

"But pre-season is fun, it's about getting your body in the best position possible.

"I don't think the big lads will agree with me, but it's a good chance to really push yourself and get yourself in the best state physically to last the duration of the season.

"The league is getting tougher every year."

And Burrell certainly hasn't used a lack of sleep as a reason to slack off at Saints in the build-up to the big kick-off this Saturday.

"It goes without saying the coaching staff and conditioning team know I've been tired, but you ask them if I've used it as an excuse to miss sessions or slow down. It's not happened, I'm not built like that," the 29-year-old said.

And Burrell stresses the birth of his daughter is nothing but a positive for him and his game.

"Luna is brilliant, she's like a breath of fresh air and it's an amazing feeling," he added.

"I've got that to carry with me and I carry that burden of making sure I can do my family proud."

And Burrell knows the way to do that is by helping Saints to win as many matches as possible this season.

"It would be amazing for me to have more success and the team to have more success," he said.

"It's exciting here now - we've got good squad depth.

"Piers Francis has given us a good balance in that fly-half position, we've got Stevo (Tom Stephenson) back, Hutch (Rory Hutchinson) coming through.

"Once we get our back three flying, it's going to be exciting.

"We've got a forward pack to compete with the best and hopefully we can hit the ground running."

Saints will certainly need to do that, with fixtures against Saracens, Leicester Tigers and Bath lying in wait during the opening three weeks of the Aviva Premiership season.

"We've got some pretty big teams to take on in that first block so for our confidence moving forward it would put us in a very strong position if we could win the games," Burrell said.

"We know exactly what it's going to take and then we want to be able to transition that into the European rugby, which we're really going to try to push this year.

"It's very important that we've got into our structure and there will be no excuses come the start of this season.

"We've got to put in the performances early in the year - that's where we came a little bit unstuck last year.

"From previous years, when we start well we tend to do well throughout the season.

"Winning becomes a habit and it's something that has been a habit during previous seasons at this club so we need to get that back.

"How good would it be to start the season with a win at Twickenham against Saracens to carry that momentum forward?

"We've done a lot of work and we're very excited about the challenge."

Saints will not only face Saracens twice in the league, but in Europe too.

Jim Mallinder's men booked their spot in the Champions Cup via the play-offs last season.

And Burrell said: "We've got some new players coming in and the off-season has been short because of how last season ended for us.

"But it's where we belong and we know we've had to come back, put the graft in and hit the ground running for the weeks leading into our pre-season games.

"We're looking in good shape in terms of our fitness levels and there's a good vibe around the club, building for that big one at the start of the season."

So what are Burrell's personal ambitions?

"I want to be playing week in, week out, but then it's hard to talk about myself individually because it's about the team," said the centre, who has 15 England caps to his name.

"I want success for the team and how we'll get that is by me playing well week in, week out.

"I'll hold my hand up and say last year I wasn't consistently at my best and when I'm consistently at my best, the team will function well so that's my main aim.

"I want to consistently play well and play as often as possible."

Several big name comedians will appear at Towcester Mill Brewery as a new season has been announced.

The first night is on Thursday September 28 with the line up of Geoff Norcott, Carl Jones and Andy Askins entertaining the crowds.

The date after this will be on ThursdayOctober 26 with Craig Deeley, Addy Van Der Borgh and Tom wrigglesworth.

Hal Cruttenden, who has made many appearances on Have I Got News For You and Mock the Week, will be one of the comedians for the third date of the season coming to Thursday November 30.

Damian Clark and Jon Pearson will also be providing the laughter.

The final night will take place just after Christmas on Thursday December 28 when the appropriately named Jarred Christmas will appear alongside Paul Kerensa and Ben Briggs.

All of these events have been organised by Funhouse Comedy who organise events across the United Kingdom. The nights will all be compered by Pete Teckman.

Tickets for any of the gigs are £15 each with food served from 6pm.

For further details or to book tickets visit www.funhousecomedy.co.uk.

Tom Wood is thrust straight back into the Saints team for the Aviva Premiership opener against Saracens at Twickenham on Saturday (kick-off 2pm).

The flanker only completed his six-week ban on Monday and has not been able to play in any of the pre-season games.

But Wood, who was suspended for stamping in the Champions Cup play-off final win against Stade Français in May, lines up at six against Saracens.

The back row also includes youngster Lewis Ludlam and Mitch Eadie, who will make his first Premiership appearance after joining Saints from Bristol during the summer.

Harry Mallinder starts at 10, with Stephen Myler (knee) and new signing Piers Francis (jaw) both injured.

Tom Collins starts on the wing after an impressive pre-season that saw him score four times, while young fly-half James Grayson is named among the replacements.

But George North is not involved, despite having recovered from a hamstring injury, as Saints will give him more time to get up to speed after not playing during pre-season.

New signings Cobus Reinach and Rob Horne only arrived at Franklin's Gardens earlier in the week and they could play for the Wanderers at Sale on Monday night.

Meanwhile, Saracens have named Maro Itoje in their team, with the Lions forward starting at six.

But Mark McCall's men will be without star names such as Mako Vunipola, Billy Vunipola and Owen Farrell this weekend.

Saracens: Goode; Maitland, Taylor, Barritt (c), Earle; Lozowski, Wigglesworth; Barrington, Brits, Koch; Day, Kruis; Itoje, Burger, Wray.

Replacements: Spurling, Thompson-Stringer, Figallo, Isiekwe, Rhodes, Spencer, Bosch, Wyles.

Saints: Tuala; Foden, Tuitavake, Burrell, Collins; Mallinder, Groom; Waller, Hartley (c), Brookes; Lawes, Day; Wood, Ludlam, Eadie.

Replacements: Haywood, Ma'afu, Hill, Ribbans, Gibson, Mitchell, Grayson, Pisi.

Competition: Aviva Premiership - round one

Venue: Twickenham

Date: Saturday, September 2, 2017

Kick-off time: 2pm

Television coverage: BT Sport 1

Saracens: Goode; Maitland, Taylor, Barritt (c), Earle; Lozowski, Wigglesworth; Barrington, Brits, Koch; Day, Kruis; Itoje, Burger, Wray.

Replacements: Spurling, Thompson-Stringer, Figallo, Isiekwe, Rhodes, Spencer, Bosch, Wyles.

Saints: Tuala; Foden, Tuitavake, Burrell, Collins; Mallinder, Groom; Waller, Hartley (c), Brookes; Lawes, Day; Wood, Ludlam, Eadie.

Replacements: Haywood, Ma'afu, Hill, Ribbans, Gibson, Mitchell, Grayson, Pisi.

Outs: Saints: Piers Francis (jaw), Stephen Myler (knee), Tom Stephenson (dead leg)

Referee: Craig Maxwell-Keys (35th Premiership game)

Most recent meeting: Sunday, April 16, 2017: Saints 25 Saracens 27 (Aviva Premiership)

Tom's preview: Saints will start the 2017/18 season how they ended the 2013/14 campaign.

And how they would love this year to resemble that one.

Jim Mallinder's men have been craving more success since beating Saracens at Twickenham and lifting their first Aviva Premiership title three years ago.

They finished top of the pile in 2015, but couldn't convert as Saracens won in the play-off semi-final at Franklin's Gardens.

And that disappointing day set the tone for the next two seasons as Saints lost their winning habit, finishing fifth and seventh respectively.

Now they are eager to get back to where they believe they belong.

They feel they should be mixing it with the likes of Saracens, Wasps, Exeter and, of course, local rivals Leicester Tigers.

But now they have to show why they deserve to place themselves among that group of teams - and finish above them.

Saracens have won two Premiership titles and two Champions Cup trophies since losing to Saints on that magical May day in 2014.

Their rise has been incredible and Saints have looked on enviously.

But when the clubs go toe to toe yet again this weekend, Jim Mallinder's men get a chance to lay a marker down.

And how they need to, especially as the clubs will also lock horns in the Champions Cup group stages this season.

Saints have lost the past three meetings between the teams, but they should have beaten Saracens at Stadium MK in April, surrendering a 25-12 lead to lose 27-25.

The final 25 minutes of that match were agonising as Saints failed to keep their composure, meaning all the attacking excellence during the early stages of the game went to waste.

They will need to be watertight this weekend and take their chances when they come.

It sounds simple, but against Saracens, nothing ever is.

Nevertheless, with plenty of Northampton folk roaring the team on at Twickenham, there are reasons to believe.

And if Saints can show the kind of spirit they did in that dramatic extra-time win at English rugby HQ three years ago, anything is possible.

Tom's prediction: Saracens 24 Saints 28

The victim was woken at 5.30am when she heard the front door letterbox of her home in Tweed Close, The Grange, being opened several times.

She went downstairs to investigate and smelt petrol at the bottom of the stairs. When she opened the front door she realised someone had set it alight, leaving it with a slightly stained finish.

Petrol had been thrown at the upper half of the door itself, but the offender had not actually set light to it, a police spokesman said.

Anyone with information should contact Northamptonshire Police on 101 or call Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555111

Get fired up with our hot competition to the Footman James Sywell Classic Pistons and Props show at Sywell Aerodrome.

It takes place, on Saturday September 23 and 24, combining hot rods, historic racers and bikes with exciting aerial air displays, and a variety of vintage performers - and the Daventry Express has five pairs of tickets to give away.

Formula 1, Formula 2 and Group B racing will form the mainstay of the Racing Runway, tearing up the tarmac, alongside a selection of classic and modern motorbikes. On the Sprint Strip, the popular Street Car Shootout will be providing smoke and squeals of rubber.

Air displays will be performed by the Yakovlevs and The Blades, both world leaders in aerial acrobatics. Plus, the Breitling Wingwalkers, the world’s only formation wingwalking team, will be taking to the skies.

Bring your dancing shoes as there will be live music in the Footman James Scarf and Goggles Bar, including Dusty Springfield tribute Dusty and Friends, vintage singer Jayne Darling, and rockabilly group the Rock-ola Rockets. In Hangar One, One Eyed Cats will be playing for the benefit of those staying overnight.

The show field will be adorned with displays by the UK’s best classic motoring clubs while Pole position parking will see private owners show off vehicles manufactured pre 1986. Limited spaces are available to book a space at the heart of the show for your pride and joy.

With World War 1 and 2 re-enactments, a vintage fun fair and vintage craft fair, it’s not all about transport – there is fun for all the family to be had at Sywell Classic, with awards for those who comes dressed up in period outfits and are the ‘best dressed.’

Tickets are available in advance, or on the gate. Advance prices start from £18 in advance for adults, with tickets for children aged 5-15 from £7 in advance and free entrance for those under five-years-old.

A family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) starts from £43 in advance with all advance tickets subject to a service charge. Weekend tickets are available, at £30 in advance for adults, £10 for children, £70 for family.

Tickets on the gate start from £22 for adults, £10 for children and £54 for families. Weekend tickets on the gate are £85. Car parking is free, and for those who wish to camp a pitch for one caravan or tent is available for £60 in advance. Camping pitches cannot be bought on the day.

The show is open from 10am until 5.30pm on Saturday, 10am until 5pm on Sunday. For more information about Sywell Classic Pistons and Props, please visit www.sywellclassic.co.uk

To win a pair of tickets, send your name, address and daytime telephone number to lucie.green@jpress.co.uk by next Friday, subject

Grammy award winning alternative pop superstars Paramore will head to the region next year as part of a five date UK tour.

Having previously performed sold out shows at the O2 Arena, Wembley Arena, and co-headlined Reading & Leeds Festivals in 2014, the band last visited the UK in June for five intimate UK.

Their fifth album After Laughter was released in earlier this year and featured the singles Hard Times, Told You So and Happy.

With multiple Grammy nominations to their name, they won the Best Rock Song category of the awards in 2015 for the song Ain’t It Fun.

Fronted by Hayley Williams, Paramore have had a remarkable run of critically acclaimed albums and singles since coming together in Nashville in 2004.

Paramore headline the Genting Arena in Birmingham on Sunday, January 14.

Tickets are on sale and can be booked by visiting gigst.rs/paramore
Tickets start from £29.50 before fees.

Northants have signed Lancashire all-rounder Luke Procter on loan until the end of the season.

But there is some bad news for the County, with Adam Rossington definitely ruled out of the remainder of the campaign due to a broken thumb.

Ben Sanderson (hamstring) and Nathan Buck (side) also look set to miss the conclusion of the Specsavers County Championship Division Two campaign.

However, the addition of Procter, who will be available for the final four matches, is a boost for head coach David Ripley.

“It’s great to have Luke with us for the final push,” Ripley said.

“He is an experienced cricketer who can come into the team and provide runs and wickets.

"I have always been impressed with his competitive nature.

"We have several injuries at the moment and his signing is a real boost for us."

Left-hander Procter has played 66 first class matches for Lancashire, taking 74 wickets and registering 2870 runs, with a high score of 137.

And the 29-year-old said: “I’m really looking forward to it.

"Simon Kerrigan and ex-Lancs lad Nathan Buck have both spoken really highly of the club, which makes me feel a little more relaxed about joining up with the lads."

Northants' next match is a clash with Sussex at the County Ground, starting on Tuesday.

In the final three matches of last season, Harry Mallinder really came of age.

Given the keys to No.10, the Sale-born player, who turned 21 in June, made his mark for Saints, ensuring they didn't miss the metronomic Stephen Myler.

So composed was Mallinder that Saints were able to secure victory in their final Premiership match, at home to Harlequins, and then progress through the Champions Cup play-offs.

Connacht and Stade Français were beaten at Franklin's Gardens as the green, black and gold booked their place at European rugby's top table for the season to come.

And Mallinder's ability to steer the ship from fly-half, despite having played at inside centre for the majority of the campaign, was striking.

He did enough to be named in the England squad for the summer tour of Argentina and although he didn't play in the two Test matches, it showed he is clearly on the radar.

And now Mallinder will look to win his first full cap in the season ahead as he again aims to impress for his club.

"I'm looking forward to the season, it's very exciting," said Mallinder, who captained England to World Rugby Under 20 Championship glory from fly-half in 2016.

"It's nice to be back amongst the guys.

"It's great to see the new faces working hard as well and it's been nice to get a run-out and see the lads playing how we want to play and playing well.

"We've got some great new players and the existing players are already good as well.

"The guys have come in and they've added to things so it's exciting and I can't wait to get going because we've got a great group."

Mallinder will again be asked to play his part at 10 in the early weeks of this campaign as Myler is still suffering with the knee injury he sustained back in April.

Piers Francis has arrived to bolster the fly-half department, but he picked up a fractured jaw in a pre-season win against Glasgow Warriors at Stirling.

However, Saints will have no issue with Mallinder filling in as he played so well at the end of last season.

"It was unfortunate for us to lose Stephen, he's a key part of our side, but I enjoyed playing fly-half and the responsibilities that come with it," Mallinder said.

"It was nice to step up and ideally it wouldn't have come to those last couple of games but it did and we finished it off the right way.

"It's where we wanted to be, it's where this club wants to be, playing in Europe, so we're pleased."

Saints have been handed a tough Champions Cup group, with Saracens, Clermont Auvergne and Ospreys lying in wait.

But before they navigate those challenges, they must front up to some brutal battles in the Premiership.

Saints start the season with a gargantuan game against Saracens at Twickenham this afternoon, and that will be followed by huge home matches against Leicester Tigers and Bath.

"Every year we look to start well and it's even more important this year with the opposition we're facing in the first few weeks," Mallinder said.

"We're confident and we're looking forward to it.

"It's going to be a big challenge and we've had a little time to tweak a few bits before we get stuck into those games."

Mallinder will look to take the experience he has gained from linking up with Eddie Jones' England into the new season.

And he is desperate to get a taste of action in the senior England shirt in the months to come.

"I've got mixed feelings about the tour (of Argentina) to be honest," Mallinder said.

"I learned lots and it was a great tour for me in that I got the exposure and I got that experience, but at the same time I didn't go there to train.

"I was hoping to play a game, but it didn't happen and I was back in camp recently so hopefully that opportunity will come some time this year."

During an interview with this publication last year, Mallinder was keen to stress just how much he still has to learn.

And the studious back is looking forward to soaking up plenty more knowledge this time round.

"I'm still learning on the job but it's key for me this year to get settled in and play how I did towards the end of last year to hopefully influence games for the team," Mallinder said.

Saints endured a sobering start to the new season as they shipped nine tries in a 55-24 defeat to Saracens at Twickenham.

Jim Mallinder's men conceded seven before the break as they were left shellshocked by the European champions' surge.

Sean Maitland grabbed a hat-trick in a 40-minutes that was far too easy for the men in red and black.

Saints could only respond through a Harry Mallinder penalty as individual errors and porous defending cost them dear.

The away side did respond after the break, with Lewis Ludlam scoring a try on his first Premiership start and Tom Wood grabbing a double on his return to action after a six-week ban.

But they were to leave Twickenham without even the consolation of a try bonus point as Saracens shut them out for the final 14 minutes.

And Saints will now have a lot of work to do to rebuild ahead of next Saturday's Franklin's Gardens showdown with local rivals Leicester Tigers.

Mallinder's men had headed to Twickenham in optimistic mood after winning all four of their matches in pre-season.

The early stages were scrappy, with Saracens struggling with their handling, but when they did piece together attacks, Saints failed to clear their lines effectively.

Mallinder ran the ball out of play in his own 22 and Saracens used the possession to turn up the head in the Twickenham sun, with Barritt eventually finding space to score.

But to the surprise of everyone in the ground, Alex Lozowski sent a simple conversion wide of the posts.

Saracens kept coming though and they soon had a second try as Richard Wigglesworth exploited more loose defending to stretch out an arm and score.

Lozowski made no mistake this time and Saints were already staring down the barrel at 12-0 down.

The Saracens intensity levels were striking and they looked set to score on every venture into enemy territory.

And they had their third score in 21 minutes when Sean Maitland found acres of space to dot down in the corner.

Lozowski missed the conversion and Mallinder quickly got his side's first points on the board with a penalty from in front of the posts.

Lozowski had the chance to cancel out Mallinder's penalty with an attempt of his own, but his kick from distance didn't hit the target.

However, the reprieve was only temporary for Saints as Wood missed a tackle out wide and the rest of the defence crumbled, leaving Lozowski to score.

Saracens had their bonus point before the break and Lozowski added insult to injury with the successful conversion.

It had been a sobering half for Saints and there was still time for it to get worse as Saracens broke away and Maitland found the speed to evade David Ribbans to score.

Lozowski missed the conversion, with his inaccuracy the only saving grace of the first 40 minutes for a beleaguered Saints side.

But predominantly it was misery on misery and Maitland was afford the freedom of Twickenham to score his hat-trick after an easy grubber kick found him.

Saints were stunned with no sign of any improvement and after Lozowski again missed a conversion, prop Vincent Koch waltzed through for his side's seventh score.

The extras were added to make it 41-3 at the end of a chastening half for those in Northampton colours.

Saints had the task of restoring pride after the interval and fledgling flanker Ludlam set about doing it as he scored his first Premiership try on his first league start.

Mallinder converted, but Saracens were soon back at the Saints door as the home side broke and hooker Schalk Brits spotted a gap before flying through it to score.

Lozowski converted to make it 48-10 and Saints suffered another blow as Tom Collins, who had been their shining light, was forced off with a calf problem.

Saints were enjoying more territory and possession in the second period and real desire from prop Alex Waller helped to make a try for Wood, who showed great power to finish.

Mallinder converted to again cut the sizeable gap to 31 points at 48-17 and Wood went over again soon after, with Mallinder adding the extras.

But in a game that seemed to go on forever, replacement scrum-half Ben Spencer scored for Saracens with 14 minutes to go, and Lozowski converted, making it 55-24.

That was how it was to end as Saints squandered two late lineouts and failed to get the score that would have at least salvaged a try bonus point.

And there was plenty to ponder for everyone of a Northampton persuasion heading into next weekend's derby date with Tigers.

Saracens: Goode; Maitland (Wyles 46), Taylor, Barritt (c) (Bosch 60), Earle; Lozowski, Wigglesworth (Spencer 66); Barrington (Thompson-Stringer 52), Brits (Spurling 54), Koch (Figallo 52); Day (Rhodes 60), Kruis (Isiekwe 15); Itoje, Burger, Wray.

Saints: Tuala (Grayson 67); Foden, Tuitavake, Burrell, Collins (Pisi 52); Mallinder, Groom (Mitchell 59); Waller (Ma'afu 62), Hartley (c) (Haywood 62), Brookes; Lawes, Day; Wood, Ludlam, Eadie (Gibson 15).

Referee: Craig Maxwell-Keys

Jim Mallinder has told Saints to learn quickly after they suffered a painful opening-day defeat against Saracens at Twickenham.

Mallinder's men conceded nine tries as they were humbled 55-24 in the south-west London sunshine.

Saracens scored seven before the break, racing into a 41-3 half-time lead, with only Harry Mallinder's penalty preventing a complete first-40 whitewash.

Lewis Ludlam and Tom Wood, who registered twice, scored after the break to at least give the Saints supporters something to shout about.

But the game was already gone and Mallinder was left to reflect on a hugely disappointing first day in this season's Aviva Premiership.

"We've had a good pre-season, a positive week, so what we've got to do is quickly learn and move on," said Mallinder, who saw his side win all four of their pre-season friendlies.

"We talked at half-time about winning the second half and looking for small gains, and we did that.

"We scored a few tries, we know the game was over, but we talked about getting that fourth try to come away with the bonus point. With a little more accuracy, we probably should have done that.

"We could have come away with something, not many sides come away from Saracens away with much, we haven't, but next week is big for us.

"We need to be better."

Saints face Leicester Tigers next Saturday, knowing a big reaction is needed at Franklin's Gardens.

But for now they must reflect on a display that left a lot to be desired.

"You think you've had a good season, you think you've prepared properly with purpose and challenged yourself with good games, at Glasgow and at home to Ulster, and we thought we could have a good season and were ready for it," Mallinder said. "But obviously we weren't.

"In the first half, Saracens were clinical in everything they did, with their turnovers and putting us under pressure.

"They scored at will and we just didn't react well enough to those 50/50 balls, and it shows when you're playing a team as good as Saracens."

Talks are ongoing this weekend as the Cobblers continue their search for a new manager.

Justin Edinburgh was relieved of his duties at Sixfields on Thursday, and chairman Kelvin Thomas said that the club had ‘some potential targets in mind’ to replace him.

The Cobblers were without a game on Saturday as their trip to Wigan Athletic was postponed due to international call-ups, and they are not in action again until next Saturday when Doncaster Rovers come to town.

Edinburgh’s assistant, Dave Kerslake, has been placed in temporary charge of first team affairs, but it could well be that the new man is in place before the weekend.

Former Burton Albion and Queens Park Rangers boss Jimmy Floyd-Hasselbaink has emerged as the 4/7 odds-on favourite to get the job.

The former Holland, Chelsea and Middlesbrough striker is a free agent after he lost his job at Loftus Road last year.

Second on the bookies list at 6/4 is former Charlton Athletic boss Chris Powell, who is also currently unemployed, and then there is a big jump in price to Jon Brady and Steve Cottrell at 16/1.

Brady is the former boss of Brackley Town, and is already employed at Sixfields where he is the professional development coach, and is in charge of the under-18s team.

Cotterill is available, as he has been out of permanent work since losing his job at Bristol City in Janaury, 2016.

He did take up a temporary role as assistant manager to Harry Redknapp at the end of last season, helping the Blues to avoid relegation from the Championship.

Cotterill was offered a deal to stay at St Andrew’s, but turned it down saying he still wanted to be a manager, rather than a number two.

“It was a very difficult decision. The club made me a good offer,” said Cotterill. #

“My decision was solely based on being a number two, whereas really I have been a manager for a long time in my own right.”

Next on the bookies’ list is former Hibernian and Rotherham United manager Alan Stubbs, who has been out of work since being sacked by the Millers last season.

Other names in the frame, according to the Bookies, are former West Brom boss Steve Clarke, ex-Coventry City manager Steven Pressley, former Leeds United and Reading boss Brian McDermott, Exeter manager Paul Tisdale and ex-Scunthorpe and York City manager Russell Wilcox.

Wilcox is of course a former Cobblers player, being part of Graham Carr’s division four title winning side of 1987, and was at Sixfields last weekend to watch the Peterborough United match.

Sky Bet odds on the next Northampton manager

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink 4/7

Chris Powell 6/4

Jon Brady 16/1

Steve Cotterill 16/1

Alan Stubbs 18/1

David Kerslake 20/1

Brian McDermott 20/1

Frank Lampard 22/1

Russ Wilcox 22/1

Keith Curle 22/1

Paul Hurst 22/1

Paul Tisdale 22/1

Neal Ardley 25/1

Luke Williams 25/1

Alan Knill 25/1

Nigel Adkins 25/1

Paul Trollope 25/1

Warren Joyce 25/1

Keith Hill 25/1

Danny Cowley 25/1

Gareth Ainsworth 25/1

John Coleman 25/1

Tim Sherwood 25/1

Danny Wilson 33/1

Aidy Boothroyd 33/1

Nigel Pearson 33/1

Gianfranco Zola 33/1

Marcus Bignot 33/1

Graham Westley 33/1

Martin Allen 33/1

Mike Phelan 33/1

Dermot Drummy 33/1

A safety warning has been issued over a new craze of swimmers wearing MERMAID tails.

The trend of wearing the item has grown alongside the popularity of children’s television show Mako Mermaids as well as classic movies Little Mermaid and Splash.

But it has also led the Royal Life Saving Society UK issuing a warning to parents about the dangers that could lead to drownings.

Earlier this month, a teenage British water sports instructor died after using a mermaid-style monofin and snorkel at an exclusive beach resort in Greece.

Harry Byatt, 19, was found at a depth of about 30 metres on the seabed on August 6.

RLSS UK say the mermaid tails should only be used in organised classes run by qualified professionals.

It has teamed up with Fin2Fit, which offers mermaid and shark tail swimming exercise classes for children, to ensure their safe use.

Mike Dunn, of RLSS UK, said: “These activities must be done in a safe and approved environment. We are conscious that there have been a number of incidents caused through improper use of mono-fins and mermaid tails.

“Videos of these incidents, which often occur in back garden and home pools, circulate on social media.

“Consequently, RLSS UK strongly recommends to all parents, that the safest way for children to enjoy and benefit from this new activity is through participation in professionally organised classes, which are delivered by qualified instructors, who are affiliated to a reputable mermaid or mono-fin swimming organisation.”

Earlier this month, the Police Federation announced that their campaign for the acceptance of tattooed police officers was met with success - a decision that’s sure to get the thumbs-up from a sizeable majority of the public.

Indeed, according to a new survey, a whopping 73 per cent of Brits approve of inked officers.

The new appearance standards guidance – developed by the College of Policing and accepted as best practice - has been said by the Police Federation to “provide officers and staff with clear direction on their appearance, so that they present a professional image while also being allowed some self-expression”.

London-based property firm Savoy Stewart delved deeper into the issue of tattooed police officers in the workplace using independent research, alongside reports from the Police Federation.

Studies have revealed that 48 per cent of serving officers have a tattoo, 17 per cent of which have a visible tattoo when in their uniform.

However, Home Office guidance on tattoos is vague and open to interpretation, meaning that in recent years, guidelines on inked officers have varied wildly across forces.

The survey by Savoy Stewart looked into how comfortable the public are with tattooed professionals across industries in order to see where police officers would appear on the list - with some surprising findings.

The survey asked Brits the following question: How comfortable would you be with a person with a visible tattoo working in the following

occupations?

PROFESSION / %COMFORTABLE / %UNCOMFORTABLE

Athlete / 88% / 12%

Chef / 81% / 19%

Police Officer / 73% / 27%

IT Technician / 72% / 28%

Estate Agent / 69% / 31%

Banker / 63% / 37%

Doctor / 59% / 41%

Judge / 59% /41%

Nurse / 57% / 43%

Lawyer / 57% /43%

Primary School Teacher / 49% / 51%

Political Figure / 44% / 56%

Air Hostess / 42% / 58%

The results showed that respondents were more comfortable seeing a tattooed police officer than a tattooed estate agent.

This supports the Police Federation’s own study, which demonstrated a similar level of acceptance, where 55 per cent of fellow officers felt comfortable working with a tattooed colleague.

Interestingly, the public seemed to be more uncomfortable seeing body modifications in female-associated roles such as primary school teachers (51 per cent of respondents were uncomfortable with this), air hostesses (58 per cent) and nurses (43 per cent).

Indeed, according to this study by Savoy Stewart, British workers are more comfortable seeing a tattooed politician (44 per cent approval) than a tattooed air hostess (42 per cent).

The study also revealed the characteristics we most associate with people who have tattoos.

These included being rebellious, less intelligent, and unhealthy.

Although more and more of us are inking our bodies, this doesn’t seem to be stopping employers from using this as a reason not to employ an individual, with 54 per cent of hiring decision makers thinking that tattoos can have a negative impact on the workplace.

Currently in the UK three in ten 25-39 year olds have tattoos, which means a serious shrinking of the talent pool if an employer decides not choose a candidate with body art.

This would be particularly troublesome to an already struggling police force.

Studies have shown that British women in particular would be affected, as they are more likely to be tattooed than men. Indeed, the Police Federation has demonstrated that 52 per cent of female officers have a tattoo compared with 47 per cent of male officers.

However, times maybe be changing, as proven by the new appearance standards guidelines by the College of Policing.

Fitting addition to Uncharted Legacy.

Hit series Uncharted is back this month with new standalone game Lost Legacy.

I’ll never grow tired of Uncharted games - well as long as they are made by Naughty Dog I won’t anyway.

But Lost Legacy did have me pondering whether the creators themselves had done the franchise justice with this one.

From the outset, having played all the Uncharted games I feel it is important to point out that while there is enough for fans of the series here, anyone new to the game should try and play the previous titles before they come to Lost Legacy.

One thing you can be sure of throughout is that the game looks great, as is this the case with all Uncharted titles.

The gameplay remains true to everything that is good about Uncharted and the ever-engrossing combat mechanics and scenarios really call on your improvisation skills and often require the gamer to think outside of the box.

Uncharted is famed for excellent scripts and storytelling.

And Naughty Dog continues that rich vein of form with some great back-and-forth dialogue between the main characters Chloe and Nadine ensuring you become really invested in the story.

The puzzle element of LL is another big plus with each challenge proving really satisfying.

Having played the entire series there is not really a case to say LL takes the series on or brings anything drastically new or improved to the table.

But then I would argue that wasn’t needed, after all as they say don’t fix what isn’t broken.

Having said that the game’s big selling point is the two main protagonists, the writing which binds them together and the beautifully crafted setting of India and its jungles and ruins.

If I was searching for a negative perhaps I would say the action feels a bit too familiar - hence my recommendation to play through the originals before trying LL.

But great graphics, smart puzzles and some top level cinematic set pieces make for a very rewarding game.

Jim Mallinder says Tom Collins was withdrawn due to cramp against Saracens on Saturday.

But Saints are still waiting on the severity of Mitch Eadie's leg injury.

Eadie, who joined from Bristol this summer, was forced off just 15 minutes into his competitive debut after a lengthy stoppage.

Collins was taken off during the second half of the 55-24 Aviva Premiership opening-day defeat at Twickenham.

And Mallinder said: "Tommy Collins has just got a bit of cramp so he's fine.

"I was really pleased with him.

"You do look for positives and he was very lively and made some lovely breaks.

"Mitch Eadie had a fantastic pre-season and it was disappointing to lose him early on.

"He's just got a leg injury and we're going to have to see how that is."