LYMINGTON & New Milton boss Graham Kemp has vowed to return the glory days to Fawcett's Field after swooping to sign five of the Jewson Wessex League's hottest properties.

Kemp has taken advantage of the recent managerial uncertainty at New Forest neighbours Brockenhurst to entice goalkeeper Steve Staples, midfield duo Andy Jones and Paul Sims and striker Phil Stone to New Milton.

And Linnets have reportedly seen off challenges from Dr Martens League Weymouth and Newport (IOW) to sign highly-rated teenage winger Kevin Gill from Wimborne.

Kemp, who has just completed his first full term at the L&NM helm, admits he has no intention of leaving the trophy cabinet bare for the third consecutive campaign.

He said: "Last season was a transitional season. I gave all the players who had played the previous season the chance to prove themselves. We weren't successful and now we've got to work hard to silence our critics.

"We want to give everyone a fresh challenge and strengthen competition for places within the squad, starting from the back."

Eastleigh could also be gunning for JWL honours next season under ambitious, new manager Paul Doswell.

Their latest signing is central midfielder Steve Thorpe, who has just left Sheffield Wednesday after three years, having captained The Owls' youth side.

Gosport Borough, yet another team with title ambitions, are showing interest in Eastleigh's former Blyth Spartans and Bedlington Terriers right-winger Glen Renforth.