FORMER Worcester City midfielder Nathan Hayward has signed for Bromsgrove Sporting.

Hayward originally agreed terms for a second campaign with hometown club City but performed a U-turn late last month on the back of interest from a higher level.

The 26-year-old former Kidderminster Harriers and Malvern Town player has opted to step up a level with Midland League Premier Division champions Sporting.

Worcester's Victoria Ground landlords Bromsgrove have also signed former Harriers and Alvechurch midfielder Jack Cresswell, ex-Leamington defender Tom Rankin and attacker Charlie Dowd from Burton Albion.

Hayward said: "I'm so happy to have now signed for Sporting and looking forward to getting my head down and fighting for my place.

"It's a great bunch of lads and I can't wait to play in front of such a great fanbase."

Hayward had admitted fears over the future direction of Worcester off the pitch had contributed to his decision to leave.

Sporting manager Brendan Kelly said: “Nathan is a hard-working tenacious midfielder with bags of energy and is a fierce competitor.

"I am chuffed to have secured his services.

“Jack is a very talented player; one of the best technically gifted players I’ve come across, and gives us some great options.

“Tom is a utility defender who is very comfortable on the ball, a local lad too which makes it even better.

“Finally, Charlie is an exciting young talent who featured in Burton's reserves last season. I am very pleased he has signed.

“I also want all fans to know this will not be the last of our business.”

Sporting are preparing for their first season in Southern League Division One East.

They have also re-signed striker Richard Gregory on contract for the upcoming campaign after some crucial goals in his partnership with top-scorer Jason Cowley.

Kelly added: “He has had interest from several clubs but likes what we are doing here and is playing with a smile on his face."