WORCESTER City have boosted their defence with the signing of centre-half Matthew Gardiner from rivals Hereford United.

The 27-year-old defender is the third new face to join manager John Barton's squad. He follows the summer arrivals of Jon Holloway and Allan Davies from Bath City and Burton Albion.

Barton, who has been tracking Gardiner since the player's time at Halesowen Town, believes he will bolster the back line.

"He is one of those defenders who knows his first role is to defend and that is what we are looking for to add to what we have already got in defensive positions," he said.

"At Hereford he had a decent start to the Conference season, but suffered an injury and did not establish himself for one reason or another."

Gardiner, who links up with former Halesowen team mates Danny McDonnell and Ian Reed, is impressed by the set up at St George's Lane.

"I know a lot of the players at Worcester and they have got the potential to push for promotion -- especially as Margate and Burton Albion have gone," he added.

"I know coming here is a step down in leagues but I don't think it is in terms of clubs and that is why people like Jon Holloway and Allan Davies are coming here."

Gardiner, who arrives in the week defender Mark Tucker left the club, spent three years at Halesowen prior to his move to Hereford.

He has also previously played for Stourbridge and has Football League experience with Torquay United and Shrewsbury Town.

Barton also confirmed he is looking to bring in a forward to strengthen the front line.

"We are still looking for somebody who is going to score us 20-25 goals a season," he said.

"We have made some significant movements in achieving that but at the moment the decision lies with the selling club."

Meanwhile City start their defence of the Dr. Martens Cup with a home tie against Western Division side Rocester.

The FA Cup/FA Trophy draws will be available on Saturday, June 30th, and the Dr Martens League fixtures will be available by Tuesday, July 10.

City have added another pre season friendly to their list, bringing the total to seven.

The game, which will be their first, is away at Midland Alliance outfit, Oldbury United on Monday, July 23, kick off 7.45pm.