AS July begins local non-League clubs are returning to training and beginning to shape their squads for the coming Isthmian League season.

One man who has already been busy recruiting is new Grays Athletic manager Lewis Dark, who has already announced a number of signings for the Isthmian North club, including much-travelled striker Sam Bantick.

Dark said: "Sam's eye for goal is second to none and the club is extremely excited to have a striker of Sam's quality at the club", while the player said: "I'm very excited to be joining a big club like Grays Athletic. They have a great history and big following, I know Lewis very well and have played with him in some very successful teams.

"He is a winner and someone I'm looking forward to playing for. I'm looking forward to getting started."

Bantick, who joins the Blues after a successful season with Hashtag United, has played for a number of Isthmian clubs, including Brentwood Town, Canvey Island, Romford, Cambridge City, Enfield Town, Heybridge Swifts, Aveley and Tonbridge Angels.

Also joining the Blues' attack is Josh Osude who played for Witham Town last season. He said: "I'm delighted to be joining Grays Athletic, I've heard a lot of good things about the club and I am very eager to do what I love and get back on the pitch scoring goals."

And a third new front man is Brian Moses who returns to the club after a nine year absence and joins from local rivals Tilbury.

Other recent recruits include a return to Grays for attacking midfielder Correy Davidson while utility player Malaki Toussaint has joined from Romford. Rob Clark is another signing and will play in midfield,