Manager Andrew Jones regrettably announces the departure of last season’s vice captain, Ben Cleverley who has signed for Southern League Premier Division rivals Tiverton Town.

Joner said “After discussions over the summer between Ben and myself it became clear that Ben had no alternative but to accept a greatly improved financial offer, which Tiverton manager, Martyn Rogers, was prepared to pay to entice the skilful midfielder. It was an offer Paulton as a club could never compete with. Clev’s, who was my first signing, four seasons ago, has been one of, if not the, best players in our league and we have been privileged to have had four years of total commitment and loyalty from a player who has previously turned down numerous offers from clubs at a much higher standard, such as Salisbury City, Bath City and Weymouth Town, to remain loyal to Paulton.

However, at 27 years old Ben felt this could be his last chance to secure a lucrative financial package, even though it was only moving up one division. I can assure everyone even though there was a million miles in monetary terms between what we could pay Ben and what he has accepted, he made it clear to me this was one of the hardest decisions he has ever had to make in life, let alone football. I’m sure everyone at this club would like to wish him a happy and successful time at Tiverton and look forward to seeing him return to Winterfield Road on Saturday 8th August when we entertain Tiverton in now what is sure to be a mouth watering friendly with his brother Dan looking forward to welcoming him back!!

Paul Milsom (Assistant Manager) and I are currently talking to many potential new players and the majority of the existing players from last season's squad and will update you as soon as I am able to, of how the new squad is shaping up".