STUART Watkiss has insisted he is not assembling a 'Dad's Army' with the signing of another 30-something.

Midfield hardman Terry Fleming, 32, is Kidderminster Harriers' sixth new recruit of the summer on a 12-month deal and their fourth over the 30 age bracket.

But Watkiss can see the need for experience and a tough approach to prosper in the Nationwide Conference, highlighted by deals for Martin O'Connor, Daryl Burgess and Wayne Evans.

Now the Harriers manager will look to add some younger talent to join the likes of Laurie Wilson, 20, and Michael Blackwood, 25, who have also checked into Aggborough.

But, in Birmingham-born Fleming, he has secured a fierce competitor who was no stranger to referees in 424 league games at Coventry, Northampton, Preston, Lincoln, Plymouth, Cambridge and last season at Grimsby.

Watkiss admitted: "He's another 30-something but he is very fit, works his socks off, tackles and can play. He's a tough character and a winner -- the type of player any team that wants to be successful needs in their side.

"I've spoken to Grimsby and they've described him as an absolute diamond. The consensus among other managers was that he was Grimsby's best midfielder last year.

"I'll make no apologies for bringing older players in because we do need experience but it's all about getting the balance right and I'm working hard to bring in some younger athletic players to complement them."

Striker Chris Beardsley, 21, has got his wish with a return to his old club Mansfield Town, but Harriers are remaining tight-lipped over talk of any compensation fee.

Chairman Colin Youngjohns could only say: "We are hap-py with the arrangement."

Meanwhile, Watkiss and fans are still waiting for the long drawn-out take-over of the club to be completed between owner Lionel Newton and consortium Aggborough Holdings.

The new signings depend on the group led by Barry Norgrove taking charge of the club and it is delaying Harriers' pursuit of other players such as Exeter City winger Gareth Sheldon.

Youngjohns added: "We are still negotiating but it is important that it is completed in the next few days."