CLACTON Hockey Club are in a “fantastic” place, according to long-serving skipper Carl Parkes.

The Seasiders have had a difficult start to the new East Men’s League season, losing four of their opening division three south-east fixtures.

The most recent defeat was last week’s 6-2 setback at Thurrock.

However, in terms of the bigger picture, Parkes believes the club’s future is in safe hands, thanks to their conveyer belt of “young blood”.

For the full story and a match report, see this week's Gazette.