Hornchurch boss reveals frustration

Hornchurch boss Jimmy McFarlane has revealed his frustrations at losing Rickie Hayles to Thurrock.

Hayles impressed at the heart of the Urchins defence as they just missed out on a Ryman Premier Division play-off place last season.

But he has decided to move to the Ship Lane club to test himself in the Conference South, after Thurrock were spared relegation in the shake-up following Rushden & Diamonds’ dismissal from the Conference.

McFarlane said: “I was bitterly disappointed to lose Rickie. He’s a good player and I didn’t want to lose him, but he wanted to play at a higher level and I appreciate that.”

McFarlane moved quickly to snap up Reiss Noel, from Brentwood, adding: “I’ve liked him for a few years and he will be an adequate replacement.”

Urchins are due to start pre-season training on July 5, but will be without Sam Collins and Sam Holloway, who have joined Concord.

The club hold a stadium clean-up day on Sunday and supporters are urged to help.

Aveley’s Carl Griffiths has moved to strengthen his squad after their Ryman Premier Division relegation reprieve.

Micah Hyde has joined from Billericay, while the fans’ Player of the Season Tony Russell returns, along with Spencer Harrison, Dave McCartney, Sherwin Stanley and Ryan Stalley.

Billy McMahon will fight it out with McCartney for the keeper’s jersey, while Ross Parmenter, who was part of the Brentwood side which lost out in the Ryman One North play-off final, and Lee Perry also join.

Griffiths said: “I always had a feeling we may stay up. It’s great news we’re back at this level. Micah did well for Billericay last year and Ross is another good player who has been attracting a lot of clubs and will be another good signing.”

Romford boss Paul Martin will cast an eye over hopefuls at the first of a series of trials on Tuesday (6.30pm), which continue on Thursday and on the same nights during July.

Anyone interested, who has played at step four level or higher, should go to Westlands Playing Fields, London Road, RM7 9NX.

*The new Havering Sports Council handbook is now out, containing contact details for clubs, news and an introduction by council leader Cllr Michael White.

Edited by Helen Bates, it is available free of charge in council offices, sports centres and libraries.