BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent have confirmed the departure of players' player-of-the-year James Love - but announced the arrival of FC Clacton defender Brad James.

It caps a busy few days for the ambitious Bostik League premier division club, having signed midfielders Harvey Hodd and Harry Morgan on Thursday and Friday respectively.

Love, who was recently honoured at the club's end-of-season awards night, has decided to seek pastures new after a year at the Taydal Stadium.

He turned down an improved deal to stay with the club.

"Unfortunately, James has decided to leave," said R's boss Tom Rothery.

"He was offered an improved deal and deservedly so, after a good season for us.

"It seemed really positive after meeting with him but he has told me he’s decided to move on.

"Naturally, I’m frustrated but he has his reasons.

"James was excellent for the team last season and really conducted himself superbly around the club.

"He was a popular figure because of that and he was also a player the supporters knew gave everything on the pitch, which made him a fans' favourite.

"I’m sure everybody will join me in wishing him all the best in the future and thank him for what he’s done for the club.

"As always at this time of season, we lose players and have to move on."

Love previously played for Brentwood Town, Heybridge Swifts, Chelmsford City, AFC Hornchurch and Cairns-based Stratford Dolphins, during his time travelling in Australia.

On the flip side, Rothery confirmed that full-back James is joining from Tendring neighbours Clacton.

The 22-year-old previously played for Heybridge, coming through their reserve and development side before being involved with the first team.

After a spell travelling, he returned this season and played for Cornard United before joining the Seasiders.

“I spoke to Clacton boss Tom (Austin) and asked if we could speak with Brad, which I then did," said Rothery.

"He's really keen to take the opportunity being offered to him at Regent.

"The thing that impressed me when watching him was his distribution with both feet and, again, he’s at a great age for (assistant manager) Pip (Boyland) and I to see what we can develop him into.

"He’s really keen and determined to make the best of this move and it'll be interesting to see how he settles at the club and adjusts to the level.

"I think he’s another really positive addition to the squad."