Torquay United have started pre-season training as they prepare for a return to the Football League.

The Gulls gained promotion back into League Two through the play-offs last season following a two-year absence.

Manager Paul Buckle told BBC Spotlight that the effects of promotion were immediately obvious when the players reported back on Monday.

"There was a buzz around the place and when they saw the league balls there was a bit of a cheer," he said.

But Buckle was quick to remind his team that the time for hard work has now begun.

"It's important now that we get some realism back into things," he said. "We've celebrated long enough.

"We come back in and we don't go silly with the players straight away because prevention of injury is vital but at the same time we're trying to get the players up to pace."

The Torquay boss added: "I'm very keen to get our focus on Chesterfield which is our first game back in the Football League and everything that we do is geared towards that."

Buckle has retained the majority of his squad from last season and said he is only thinking of signing two or three new players before the transfer window shuts at the end of August.

"This group have got the opportunity to impress me and show me they're good enough for league football," Buckle said.

"I'm absolutely delighted these players are going to reap the rewards in playing such a vital part in the clubs success."

The Gulls have arranged six pre-season friendlies, three of which will be played at Plainmoor, including a fixture against Plymouth Argyle on 15 July.

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