Terry Benson has made his first two signings since becoming Halstead manager.

Benson has snapped up experienced players Mark Farmer and Peter Emerick to help Town in next season's Jewson Premier campaign.

And he has strengthened his back up staff by bringing in Bobby Buckingham to run the reserves and Malcolm Leeworthy takes charge of the youth team.

Benson was delighted to secure two experienced players so early in the close season.

Farmer's last club was Harwich while Emerick has recently had spells at Witham and Tiptree.

He said: "Mark has played at a high level. He was in the Merthyr Tydfil side who played Galatasaray in the European Cup so he knows what it's about.

"I know Peter from my days at Witham and he is a very solid player who I know will do a good job for me."

Benson took over from Steve Parnell who was sacked in a training pitch row just before the end of the season.

Former Manchester City player Benson said: "I feel very at home. Halstead is a lovely club and the people have been very helpful."

Terry is a distant cousin to former Manchester City manager John Benson who was yesterday named new boss at Wigan Athletic.

He said: "I was delighted to hear John had got the Wigan job. I know him from my Man City days and I'm sure he will do a good job. Let's hope both of us have good seasons."

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