Grimes boost for Gray's plans

Brigg Town manager Mick Gray reckons his plans for the new season received a massive boost on Friday when striker Paul Grimes agreed to re-sign for the new campaign.

Grimes, pictured, who returned to the Hawthorns in December 2012 after a successful spell at Grantham Town, scored 13 goals in his 21 appearances for the Zebras.

Gray was thrilled to see Grimes commit himself to Brigg and said: "Paul's a top player with a great attitude and his goals record is excellent. I am sure that every club in the Evo-Stik NPL would like to have him in their team. He's more than just a goal scorer, he's a clever player with great awareness."

Gray also announced the capture of Michael Jacklin from Stamford on Friday and the return of another familiar face, keeper Andy Pettinger.

Jacklin returns to Brigg for a second spell at the club after being impressed with Gray's plans to move the club forward. He has a lot of experience of the Evo-Stik NPL and apart from his recent spell at Stamford, he also won the title with Grantham Town.

Gray said: "I met Michael a week ago to tell him about my plans for next season. He was excited with what I told him about the structure of the club and is delighted to be back."

Pettinger returns to the Hawthorns having previously played for the Zebras between 2009 and 2011 before leaving to sign for Gainsborough Trinity. The keeper started his career at Scunthorpe United before agreeing a dream move to Premier League Everton where he spent two seasons before moving to Grimsby Town on a two year deal.

Recently he has been working as goalkeeper coach at Scunthorpe United and Gray added: "Petts is a top keeper at this level. I've worked with him before and know what he's about. He will also work with our young keepers, from the age of seven right up to the first team squad which will be great for everyone at the club."