BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent have bolstered their squad with two new signings - and extended the loan of Colchester United defender George Keys.

The Bostik League premier division club have recruited their former defender TJ Amass, as well as bringing in goalkeeper James Bradbrook from Needham Market.

Fellow shot-stopper Harry Palmer has left the club but Keys is returning for another month at least, having played for Colchester’s under-18s in Tuesday’s FA Youth Cup defeat against Reading.

Manager Tom Rothery was pleased with his latest dealings and says the additions will be in contention for Saturday’s home game against Margate.

“TJ approached me a few weeks ago about returning to the club and he came training,” said the R’s boss.

“He’s a great addition for us.

“He understands the club and was really keen to get back involved.

“He’s always been a really good athlete and technically sound, so those attributes, plus his experience, will make him a really good squad addition for us.

“James is a goalkeeper I’ve worked with before and he’s a really great lad.

“He’s professional and always looking to improve himself.

“I spoke to Wilks (Needham manager Richard Wilkins) and he said he was available until the end of the season.

“It’s a good time to take him and, again, he will add something to us.

“He’s played at this level and whenever he’s played for me before at Needham, he’s brought a calmness to the team.

“Despite his relatively young age, he’s a really mature performer - very calm, controlled and reliable.”

Twenty-year-old Bradbrook will replace Palmer between the R’s posts.

“Unfortunately, Harry’s time at the club has come to an end and it’s never easy to reach that decision,” said Rothery.

“However, he’s been extremely professional in his time at the club and I wish him all the best with his future in football.”

Rothery was also delighted to extend Keys’ time at the Taydal Stadium.

The full-back has impressed during his time on loan at the club, on a work experience arrangement.

“George has trained really well and shown that defensively he’s very sound,” added the R’s boss, who expressed his thanks to Wilkins, Needham and Colchester.

“I felt he was excellent at Folkestone on Saturday.

“He’s done well in the month he’s been with us so hopefully his time will continue with us for the foreseeable future, but at least for the next month.”