BRIGHTLINGSEA Regent have confirmed their summer schedule of pre-season friendlies.

The R's have lined up seven matches to help fine-tune their preparations for the new Bostik League campaign.

They begin with fixtures at Long Melford and Little Oakley, on July 12 and July 16 respectively.

They then entertain Lowestoft Town at the Taydal Stadium on July 20.

A trip to Tendring neighbours FC Clacton awaits on July 23 before a Friday night fixture at home to Brantham Athletic, on July 26.

Regent's final two friendlies are away to Hadleigh United, on July 30, and at home to Harlow Town, on August 3.

Meanwhile, Gavin Aplin has been appointed as the club's new ladies' first-team manager.

He has replaced David Girling, who stepped down in the summer after forming the side as a youth team and leading them through to their first season in senior football last term.