BRADNINCH & Kentisbeare have made their first signing since winning the Tolchards DCL Premier Division title for the first time by adding spin-bowling all-rounder Toby Hard to their squad.

Hard, who bowls left-arm spin, was a first-team regular for Abbotskerswell last season during their unsuccessful attempt to dodge relegation from the DCL A Division.

Gary Chappell, Bradninch & Kentisbeare’s Premier-winning captain, said 17-year-old Hard is a ‘great addition’ to the roster.

“We were impressed with Toby in a pre-season friendly last year and it came to our attention he was keen to step up a level,” said Chappell.

“Toby is a hard-hitting batter, who bowls spin, and will be a great addition, especially with one eye on the future.”

Hard has been through the Devon Cricket Foundation youth system, where Bradninch & Kentisbeare’s Bunbury Festival pick Joe Gillett was a team-mate in the South & South West under-15 side in 2023.

Ed Smout-Cooper, the Abbotskerswell captain, admitted he was sad to lose a player who had been with the club since under-13 level.

“It's disappointing to see a good, young player leave us but, on the whole, we're having a positive winter,” said Smout-Cooper.

“Everyone at Abbotskerswell wishes Toby the best – and he's welcome back any time.”

Chappell, who steered B&K to their first Premier Division title last season, reports no significant departures during the close season. That does not mean the door is closed to anyone interested in joining the club.

“We're always keen to bring in fresh local players,” said Chappell.

“With our 2nd XI now in the C Division East following promotion last season, we can offer people a higher level of cricket to bridge the gap between the two teams.”

Bradninch & Kentisbeare will start winter training in February.