Summer switch raises a smile (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Summer switch raises a smile

MELKSHAM TOWN: SIMON Price believes Melksham Town can look forward to a bright future as the arrival of manager Kelvin Highmore heralds a new era at the Conigre.

The burly striker has returned to his home town club after a season and a half at rivals Devizes Town and is confident the foundations are in place to build a successful team.

The last few seasons have seen almost constant change at the Conigre as a succession of managers and players have failed to turn around the club's fortunes.

But with the arrival of Highmore comes the semblance of stability as he immediately looks to make his own mark on the squad.

Price, 28, said: "I am really looking forward to the new season. I decided to come back here because I felt there were changing faces coming into the club and that is what was needed.

"No disrespect to any of the previous managers but there have been no big changes here for the past few years but I feel Kelvin will freshen things up.

"I am a Melksham lad and want to play for Melksham Town. We have the best pitch in the division and in the end it was an easy decision for me to come back."

Price has been joined by the Messenger twins, Matt and Justin, Dave Macey and goalkeeper Gareth Evans in returning to the club. Trowbridge Town midfielder Gavin Eyre has also signed.

Highmore is also expected to use several of Melksham's very talented under 18s team, with Nick Rideout, Kris Beesley, and Ryan Trowbridge expected to play a key role this campaign.

Price said: "It is going to be hard at first, but there are a lot of very talented youngsters at this club and if they are developed the right way then there could be a very good side here two years down the line.

"I have got some experience and would like to help the youngsters along wherever I can. There are a few other experienced heads here with me now and it is important we all play our part.

"Everything is in place here for the club to start moving forward and all it needs is for a group of players to hang around and try to push things forward. It won't come over night but we have to be patient."

"Melksham feels like the place I should be playing and I am looking forward to the chance of helping them progress. Since Darren Perrin left there has not been a lot of stability around the place but from the early signs I think Kelvin is going to change all that. He is going to be very good for this club."