NEW goalkeeper Lewis Gwilliams is determined to maintain a vice-like grip on Worcester City’s number-one jersey after a “frustrating” season of shared duties.

The 26-year-old has agreed terms to switch from Alvechurch, the club he helped to secure a second straight promotion from the level above City's last season.

Gwilliams has had a nomadic career to date with spells at Sutton Coldfield Town, Leamington and Stourport Swifts.

Despite playing his part in Church’s success last term the Rubery-based stopper found it impossible to nail down a regular spot, prompting his decision to decline their invite to pre-season training.

And after positive talks on that front with new boss John Snape, Gwilliams had no hesitation in committing to City’s cause.

“Game time is important to me and this is a chance to win the league,” said Gwilliams.

“The manager put his plan to me, he knows he can compete to top this league and I knew pretty quickly that I wanted to be a part of it.

“I have been in and out and messed about at times. I have been trying to find my feet and to be honest, I thought I had at Alvechurch.

“Not everything works out, though. There were a couple of other clubs at step five (City’s level) and I was asked back to Alvechurch for pre-season despite playing a fair number of games for them.

“It sometimes felt like I deserved a better run without getting one. When you feel like you deserve it and other people think that too, it becomes frustrating.

“I like being in a position where I have to fight for starts. The gaffer (Snape) said I would keep the shirt if I play well and that’s all I want. No one wants to get dropped 10 games in when playing well.

“He was fair about it. He told me he wanted a number one but that I would have to compete for my place. To hear him say I would stay in as long as I earn it was music to my ears.

“I want a bit of trust from my manager. I know I will have to work hard in pre-season but cannot wait to get started, I am really excited about meeting up with the lads.

“Hopefully, we can give it a good go and push on from the start of the season.”

Gwilliams becomes City’s second signing of the summer after midfielder Robbie Bunn.

Goalkeeper Matt Gwynne, defenders Jamie Smith and Jordan Stoddart, midfielder Mat Birley and frontrunners James Baldwin, Dave Reynolds and Nick Turton have all agreed to be retained.

Striker Benji Robinson, rookie Josh Harris-James and winger Alex Tomkinson are the confirmed departures.

Former captain Brad Birch, who dual registered with Stourbridge in March last season, has been announced as retained by the Glassboys.