GLOUCESTERSHIRE County Cup champions Lechlade will begin the defence of their trophy at home to Painswick after the draw for this year’s competition was made.

Both sides have been given a bye through to the first round, while several teams from higher leagues including Thornbury, Cheltenham and last year’s semi finalists Downend, will have to come through a preliminary round to join them.

In total 21 clubs have entered the 2014 competition which will again be sponsored by cover and sightscreen specialist Stuart Canvas.

The pick of the preliminary fixtures sees West of England Premier One side Downend host Thornbury from Premier Two while in round one, last year’s beaten finalists Bedminster face Gloucester City Winget who made the quarter finals in 2013.

All preliminary matches must be played by June 1 and first round fixtures completed by June 29.