SOLENT Stars are stepping up their search for a coach to succeed Mark Scott at the senior men's helm.

Stars, who parted company with Scott, pictured left, last month, are expanding their operation next season and are determined to find the right person to lead them in the English Basketball League Division 1.

"The club is moving forward and we are anxious to make the right appointment," said club owner Bob Paulley. "At the moment we have several people in the frame, but we are still in the market for any aspiring local or regional coach who may be interested in applying."

Last week Solent flew in a Spanish coach from Valencia and arranged two games to have a look at him. He took along two Spanish players, one of whom - a 6ft 9in centre - showed promise.

Under Solent's new structure, the appointed coach will have a general overview of all the other club's male teams, including those of the youth section.

With trials fixed for Saturday, June 26 (Hamble Community Sports College, 3pm), the club directors are anxious to make an appointment in the near future. The directors will be meeting regularly this month to complete the new structure of the club.

Anyone interested in more details of the coaching post should contact club director and secretary Jim Rumsey on 023 8040 3927 or Michael Ball on 023 9250 4036.