EXPERIENCED defender Mark Jackson has committed his future to Kidderminster Harriers as boss Stuart Watkiss swooped for his first summer signing.

With many players' contracts ending yesterday, Watkiss has been given the green light for additions with Aggborough Holdings' imminent take-over of the club from Lionel Newton.

And the Harriers manager has pounced to snap up former Walsall and Rochdale right-back Wayne Evans, 34 next month, who has played well over 400 Football League games.

Watkiss, who has signed the player on a 12-month deal, said: "Wayne is a tried and tested player. You know you'll get consistency from him week-in-week-out. I am confident he will be an excellent acquisition for us."

Another major boost is influential centre-half Jackson, 27, signed from Scunthorpe last season, agreeing to stay, despite a relegation release clause in his contract at the Conference outfit.

Watkiss said of the club captaincy contender: "He's a massive character to have on and off the pitch and will be a pivotal part of my side next season. I told Jacko at the end of last season I wouldn't stand in his way if he wanted to walk away. However, he has made it clear to me he doesn't want to quit the club and is looking at moving his family down to the Midlands."

However, the news does not seem quite so bright over the 2004-05 player-of-the-season Dean Keates, while striker Mark Rawle is expected to leave.

Diminutive midfielder Keates, 27, is being reportedly chased by Lincoln City and it would be a surprise if the Coca-Cola League Two promotion chasers did not get their man.

However, Watkiss added: "I've seen quite a few players over the past couple of days and it looks as though four of those have verbally agreed to join.

"I've also made offers to others, although I may not know the outcome of these for a few more days yet."

Ex-Shrewsbury left winger Sam Aiston, 28, is known to have been in talks.

n Harriers have added an extra pre-season friendly at neighbours Bewdley Town on Saturday, July 9 (2pm).