BEN Lane has become Malvern Town’s first summer signing as joint managers Dene Whittal-Williams and Lee Hooper step up their recruitment drive.

Hooper revealed the attack-minded youngster turned down “many other offers” to join Malvern from neighbours Pershore Town.

Town have also been boosted by goalkeeper Charlie Weaver’s decision to stay as he prepares for his sixth season with the club.

Weaver joins defenders Louis Loader and Jay Sauntson and strikers Matthew Turner and Joshua Hunt in agreeing to commit their futures to the West Midlands (Regional) League Premier Division outfit.

And Hooper and Whittal-Williams are expected to make further announcements as they look to retain more members of last season’s squad.

“Both myself and Dene are delighted with the work that we have been able to do this week,” said Hooper.

“We’ve secured the services of some important members of the squad who were great on and off-the-pitch last season.

“They will provide us with a solid foundation and talks are continuing with other members of the team from last year.”

Hooper said he was also looking forward to working with Lane who made 18 appearances for Pershore last term.

“It’s great to have Ben on board,” continued Hooper.

“He had many other offers on the table but chose us, which is great.

“He will strengthen us going forward with his ability and determination on the ball.”

Lane added: “I really liked what I heard from Malvern Town.

"It’s an ambitious club who want to progress and develop in the right way.

“There’s a real desire to win games and push on and I feel that the managerial duo can get the best out of me.”

Malvern failed in their efforts to keep hold of forward Kyonn Evans who has made the move to county rivals Worcester City.

But they received a double boost when Turner and Hunt who netted 52 league goals between them in the 2017-18 season penned new deals.

“I am happy to have signed on for the new season,” Turner said.

“The club is moving in the right direction and it is an exciting time to be involved.

“I am looking forward to working with the new management team and continuing to make progress and build on where I left off.

“I can’t wait for the new season to get underway now.”

Pre-season schedule

Saturday, July 7: Worcester City (H) 3pm.

Thursday, July 12: Alvechurch (H) 7.45pm.

Thursday, July 19: Dudley FC (H) 7.45pm.

Saturday, July 21: Newent Town AFC (A) 3pm.

Saturday, July 28: Stonehouse Town (H) 3pm.

Tuesday, July 31: Littleton (H) 7.45pm.