JAMES Park admitted the exit of Ed Denham was a blow to Bournemouth’s hopes but revealed they were hoping to recruit two new additions to boost the bowling attack.

Dorset seamer Denham has quit the Chapel Gate outfit to join Birmingham and District Premier League outfit Old Hill.

It is understood he is hoping the move could enhance his chances of playing second team cricket with a County Championship club.

Bowler Denham had established himself as an important player for the Lions and helped them claim the Southern Premier League Division One championship last summer.

But he has become the latest star of the 2010 success to leave the club, with fellow bowler Scott Barlow last month returning to play his club cricket with Sidmouth in Devon.

Batsman Park, Bournemouth’s vice-captain, said: “To lose two Minor Counties bowlers in the first seven weeks of the season is not ideal.”

Asked about potential replacements, Park added: “We’ve got a lot of youngsters and there are another two lads we are hoping to sign.”

Park had been set to take charge of the team on Saturday in the absence of captain Simon Watkins, but Bournemouth’s scheduled Division One clash against St Cross Symondians fell victim of the weather.