It is the anticipation and excitement of a summer ahead, with last year’s wooden spooners determined to turn their fortunes around with an array of new recruits.

 About half-a-dozen players have either joined or returned to the club for 2015-2016 and skipper Ricky Dent said it was good to see because it had also added a layer of depth that had been missing in recent seasons. 

“There is a good feeling here at the moment,” Dent said. 

“We have a few new guys and a few guys who have come back, which gives us depth we haven’t had for a while. 

“It just gives us so many more options.” 

Left-hand batsman Jake Moore has arrived at Thornton from University in Newcastle, while paceman Jeremy Kirk has come from the Newcastle City and Suburban competition. 

There are also two English imports, who were expected to arrive in town on Monday after being recruited by Thornton left-arm bowler Chris Archer. 

Former Stockton club member Rick Mace will have another go at Thornton after breaking a finger early last ­season. 

Also returning to Thornton after time away are one-time captain and hard hitting batsman Chad Ryan, talented junior Nathan Evans, all-rounder Dane Castles and Jordan Willard. 

This will be in addition to the existing crew of Dent, Archer, Jake Reeves, Jono Momsen, the Thompson brothers Elliott and Matt, as well as the Gabriel family connections – father Peter and sons Matt and Jono. 

“We are really looking forward to it,” Dent said. 

“We will be aiming for the top four that’s for sure.” 

Long-time opening bowler Joel Mulder has indicated he wouldn’t play for Thornton this season.