STEVE BOOK will be handed the chance to stake his claim for Town's goalkeeping jersey but Rhys Evans has no intention of giving up his No 1 slot without a fight.

Andy King has invited the former Cheltenham man to join Town on their pre-season trip to Devon in July with a view to signing him up if he impresses.

Book, 34, was released by Whaddon Road boss John Ward last month after seven years with the Gloucestershire outfit.

He clocked up more than 300 senior appearances in that time before losing his place to Shane Higgs at the back end of the 2002-3 campaign.

Book's finest hour between the sticks for Cheltenham in the 2001-2 Division Three play-off final when the Robins saw off Rushden and Diamonds to clinch promotion to Division Two.

On leaving Cheltenham last month he felt he still had plenty to offer at a decent level.

Book is already well 'acquainted' with one of his future teammates.

He was clattered by Sam Parkin when Town slumped 2-0 at Cheltenham in September 2002, a tackle which saw Super Sammy red-carded.

He fits the bill that Andy King is looking for in terms of a challenger to Evans.

King said: "I decided to go for an experienced keeper and Steve Book will be joining us on the trip to Bideford with a view to signing a contract here.

"I could have gone down the route of bringing in another young kid but I felt this was the way to go.

"I only lost Bart Griemink because of finances."

With Griemink having departed, Book will provide experienced back up but without a massive impact on the wage bill.

However, he will have a battle on his hands to oust Town's current keeping custodian.

Rhys Evans was virtually ever present last season and he is not about to see that change.

He said: "If I'm honest I don't know too much about Steve but he's obviously experienced and with so many games under his belt has been there, done it and got the t-shirt.

"Competition is all part of football.

"I'm the man in possession of the

shirt and it's up to me to keep showing the sort of form to keep it that way."

Both Evans and Book will be given chances to impress when Town head for Bideford on July 19.

Following a successful trip to Devon 12 months ago, Town officials have decided to repeat the experience.

Notts County are also in town the same week and the two sides will meet at Bideford's Sports Ground home on Monday July 19.

Town will then play their hosts 48 hours later.