KIDDERMINSTER Harriers manager Ian Britton plans to draft in a couple of newcomers later in the summer.

He is stepping up his search for fresh blood following star midfielder Richie Appleby's decision to turn down a new contract at Aggborough.

He now looks likely to join Harriers' former boss Jan Molby at Hull City.

Britton said: "It's now time for Kidderminster Harriers to move on. I will be looking to bring in a couple of players later in the summer to improve the squad. I have my eye on three or four players who are currently in similar situations to Richie."

While Britton is planning to bring in new players a number of former Aggborough campaigners are fixing themselves up with different clubs.

Young midfielder Ben Davies has already signed a two-year deal with Nationwide Conference side Chester City.

Striker Tony Bird wants to stay in the Foootball League and has issued a come-and-get-me plea to Shrewsbury Town. Firstly, however, he will have a trial at Irish club St Patricks.

Former skipper Ian Clarkson has attracted interest from a number of Third Division and Conference clubs.

Meanwhile, Harriers have arranged a variety of pre-season matches, starting with a trip to Stratford Town on Saturday, July 13 (3pm).

The others are: Monday, July 15 v Evesham United (away, 7.30pm), Friday, July 19 v Reading (home, 7.45pm), Sunday, July 21 v Solihull Borough (away, 3pm), Wednesday, July 24 v Wolverhampton Wanderers (home, 7.45pm), Saturday, July 27 v Worcester City (away, 3pm), Telford United (during week starting July 29, away, 7.45pm), Saturday, August 3 v Cheltenham Town (home, 3pm).