GRAHAM Kemp is not surprised to see local clubs floundering in the Sydenhams Wessex League and claims: “There is not a lot on offer.”

The ex-Christchurch and Hamworthy boss returns to the County Ground with current club Bemerton tonight and is likely to field several well-known faces from the Bournemouth and Poole circuit.

And Kemp reckons that is an indictment of clubs closer to home.

He told the Daily Echo: “Generally, I get the impression that there isn’t a lot on offer round here for local players.

“I know we haven’t set the world alight at Bemerton but when you look round here, it is Southern League with no money at Wimborne. In the Wessex, the facilities at Verwood and Poppies are not brilliant and Christchurch are in the league below.

“Hamworthy were in a bit of disarray when Shane (Traynor, manager) had to take a break so you could see why lads would look elsewhere.

“It is disappointing that local clubs haven’t pushed on and tried to challenge for the title. Money dictates as well, maybe it just comes down to that to an extent.”

Elsewhere in the Premier Division, Lymington journey to Fareham, while Ringwood face a road trip to Romsey in Division One (all 7.45).