Dorchester Town Reserves’ manager Robbie Taylor is relishing the task of moulding future first-team stars.

The former Magpie ace, who bagged a brace in the first competitive match at the Avenue Stadium almost 21 years ago, has been elevated from his role as under-18s’ chief and believes the return of a county town reserve side is long overdue.

Taylor’s charges will compete in the newly formed Wyvern League, which is set to feature fellow reserve teams from clubs such as Eastleigh and Gosport Borough.

And Robbie, father of current Magpie Adam Taylor, is looking forward to the upcoming challenge.

He said: “It’s a natural progression for me as I’ve been with the under-18s for a while and I started out with a few of them when they were 12.

“Also, having played for Dorchester when they first moved to the Avenue Stadium, my heart has always been with the club.

“With the reserves we will try to mirror everything the first team do, as well make sure that all players, when called upon, are ready to step up.

“The lads in the first team who are often on the bench or need to get some match-fitness will have the opportunity to play, as will the youngsters coming through.

“It’s important for a reserve team to bring young lads through and give them opportunities.

“It’s very much needed and long overdue because last year we had a good group of lads in the under-18s but a lot of them had to go elsewhere. I’ve since made contact with a few who left last year and we may see a few come back.”

Discussing the Wyvern League format, Taylor added: “Some games will be played on a Saturday but from what I gather the home team will have the choice as to whether the game takes place on a Saturday or in midweek.

“A lot of the other teams will be reserve sides like us so most will probably want to play in midweek.”

A Dorchester third team is also expected to be introduced, with Dorset League Division One or Division Two its most likely destination, while there could be two under-18 outfits.

Taylor said: “We hope to still have an under-18 team in the South West Counties League, as well as one in the Dorset Sunday League.”