FOOTBALL: BEWDLEY Town have managed to keep all of last season's successful West Midlands League Premier Division squad together - and added an exciting new face.

Boss Craig Payton has persuaded his players to remain at Ribbesford Meadows despite interest in a couple of their big-hitters.

Bewdley have fended off the advances of Stourport Swifts for Chris Hough and Lewis Pountney, who was also being courted by Bromsgrove Rovers.

And Payton has even managed to strengthen his squad - the surprise package in last season's Premier Division - by snapping up Robbie Jew.

The former Bromyard sweeper-cum-central midfielder was the West Midlands League player-of-the-season three years ago.

But he has been out of action for a while because of a knee injury.

"We've done well to keep all of the lads together even though we've had a few clubs sniffing around," said Payton.

"The secret to our success has been building this team over the last 10 years and lads that started with us when they were 16 are now reaping the rewards.

"We've managed to sign Robbie Jew and he should be a useful addition."

Bewdley open their friendly programme by entertaining Oldbury United at the refurbished Ribbesford Meadows on Tuesday night , kick-off 7pm.

Stourport Swifts are the visitors on Tuesday, August 1, while the club are also trying to finalise home friendlies with Cradley and Telford and an away trip to Pershore.

Club officials are also waiting to hear from the Football Association to confirm if their application to play in the FA Vase has been successful.

Their West Midlands League Premier Division campaign kicks off on Saturday, August 19 but the fixtures have yet to be released.