TIVERTON Town boss Martyn Rogers has snapped up former Cheltenham Town midfielder Ben Cleverley from Paulton Rovers.

The 27-year-old became Rogers' fourth summer signing after turning down Conference South Weymouth and agreeing terms at Ladysmead yesterday.

Bristol-based Cleverley joins David Morrissey, Dean Griffiths and Scott Brice, who have all joined the Yellows for the coming season. And Rogers believes his latest acquisition could prove to be his best.

"He is a player I have looked at for a long time and I even tried to get him at the start of last season." said Rogers.

"He is playing at a level far below where he should be and he is going to be one of the best midfielders in the league for us.

"He is a really exciting signing because he is the sort of player you can give the ball to in any situation and he will do something for you.

"I'm absolutely delighted that we've managed to tie up the deal and I'm sure Ben will prove to be a really important player for us."

Former Bristol City trainee Cleverley featured 10 times for Cheltenham in Coca-Cola League Two before joining Forest Green Rovers and then Paulton.

And Rogers hopes to hand him a free role when the Southern League Premier Division season starts in August, with the long-serving Tivvy chief adding: "Ben is a ball player and someone who is bound to create things for us."

Meanwhile, Rogers played down any suggestion that Cleverley's arrival may pave the way for the departure of much-admired young midfielder Bobby Hopkinson.

"As far as I know, everyone is staying for next season and we are building a solid squad," Rogers said.

"There may still be a few more signings to come in but we're not looking to let anyone go."

Willand Rovers manager Clive Jones says up to seven current players have given their word that they will be with the Western League club again next season.

Among them is veteran goalkeeper Brian Cann who, at 42, has agreed to play for one more year.

And Jones is happy with the way things are shaping up, with midfielder Danny Baily the latest to confirm he would stay.

Jones said: "I'm not putting too much pressure on the players by making them sign because I've said they can all have June off.

"But those I've spoken to have said they will still be here next season and that's great to kno.

"Brian and Danny are important players for us so it's nice to know they will be here."

Cullompton Rangers have confirmed their pre-season fixture list with emerging Cornish team Truro among their opponents. They also play Tiverton Town on July 22.

Cullompton friendlies: Crediton (a, July 18, 3.0), Tiverton Town (h, July 22, 7.30), Dawlish Town (h, July 25, 3.0), Alphington (h, July 29, 7.30), Truro City (h, August 1, 3.0)