JOSH Searle and Andrew Sowden-Bird have become the latest players to join Bovey Tracey AFC ahead of their first ever season in the Jewson Western League.

Searle, just like Rudi McKinnon, was announced as a signing for Ben Gerring’s side back towards the turn of the year.

He appeared six times (as per the league’s website) but this time around, the move is on a more permanent basis.

To the club’s social media channels, Gerring had this to say on his newest addition.

“Delighted to welcome Searley permanently to Bovey. He obviously helped us out last season, which then turned into a four-week loan from Willand and he’s seen enough to want to join us here full time.

“He needs no introduction, a fantastic fullback capable of playing both sides and will give us great experience next season. A fantastic addition to an already strong group.”

Sowden-Bird also brings the necessary experience to the table having played for Bovey’s rivals Buckland Athletic last term.

Matt Cusack confirmed that the goalkeeper’s departure from the Bucks was due to his work changes and their impact on his ability to train but for Gerring, “After some discussions, we found a way to suit both parties.”

Sowden-Bird also offered his perspective on why this was the right move for him: “When Ben rang me, he told me exactly where he wanted the club to be next season and I haven’t had that yet with anyone else.”

Beyond the new arrivals, Gerring and Bovey have tied a few key players down for the campaign.

Following the retirement of right-back Cliff Walters, Lewis Perring on the other flank takes over the mantle as the clubman and will be flying down the left for at least another year.

As a result of his relationship with the club, “It was an easy decision to stay and be part of this exciting chapter,” wrote Perring.

At the other end of the field, strike duo Ollie Aplin and Stuart Bowker are both here to stay.

Bowker admitted: “I did think last year was probably going to be my last year but with how well we did, part of me still thinks I’ve got quite a bit to give.”

On his standout memory of a very successful 2025/26 campaign, he said: “The hat-trick in the cup final with my newborn special there, that was pretty special.”

And then looking ahead to Bovey’s first stab at step five football, “I don’t see any reason why we can’t go on and be strong again. There’s no reason why we can’t go for the playoffs, you just never know what’s going to happen in football.”

Aplin meanwhile commented: “I can’t wait to get started and look forward to scoring more goals for Bovey.”

Last but by no means least is young centre-half Harvey Coggins. He, like the majority of the squad, looked to be playing below his level in the SW Peninsula League truth be told.

Coggins is “going to give everything for the badge again” with Gerring adding: “I think we can get more from him, providing he comes back hungry and ready to learn.”

Gerring also cited that Owen Stockton and David Rowe have and will continue to aid him in his progression but the manager will of course help massively too, having himself played for the likes of Torquay United and Truro City.

Searle and Sowden-Bird are signings four and five after Jadore Lawson, Rudi McKinnon and Charlie Stevens.