BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent have confirmed that three more of last season's squad have signed and committed for the new campaign.

Assistant manager and defender Pip Boyland, vice-captain Josh Gould and wide man Jake Clowsley have become the latest trio to put pen to paper on fresh deals at the Taydal Stadium.

They have followed in the footsteps of top-scorer Billy Hunt, record appearance-maker Jake Gould, Jake Turner and highly-rated young duo Rob Harvey and Tom Dunningham.

"It’s important we keep the nucleus of last season's squad, which we almost have now with eight having signed from last season," said Regent boss Tom Rothery.

"Hopefully at least two more will follow in the next few days.

“I didn’t want to lose the two that we have but the new signings to date are really positive.

"Josh signing is important for us.

"He’s one of our most experienced players and, as vice-skipper, an important member in the changing room, too.

"After Christmas he was excellent and really adapted to the new level.

"He brings physicality that, as a team, we sometimes require.

"He’s a professional lad so having had that first season at this level, he'll have taken a lot on board and will continue to grow with the team.

"Jake came back towards the end of the season and did exactly what I signed him for.

"He was another more experienced player that we needed at the time.

"Even though he’s only 24, Jake has played senior football for a number of years and understands what’s required on and off the pitch.

"He’s a very tenacious player and there are things we've asked him to improve on for next season.

"But I know he always wants to improve his game which is great for me and the club."

Rothery was also delighted to keep right-hand man Boyland.

The ex-Stanway Rovers defender was out injured for virtually all of last season but has signed on as a player again, in addition to his responsibilities as assistant manager.

“I sat down with Pip and (chairman) Terry (Doherty) as soon as the season finished to get things organised and wanted Pip to stay as assistant," said the R's boss.

"He was excellent in that role last season and I felt we worked together really well.

"He had his cruciate injury operated on in April so once that has recovered he's looking to come back and play.

"From the outside, when playing against Pip, I’ve seen he’s a great leader on the pitch.

"He’s combative, obviously a good player and a winner.

"He'll certainly add something to us when back fit and playing."

The two players from last season to move on are Aaron Condon and James Love.