BASHLEY boss Steve Riley has boosted his squad by snapping up former Dorchester Town utility man Tom Mitchell from Gosport.

The Borough youngster, who is Cherries chairman Eddie Mitchell’s son, came through a run-out for the New Foresters in a training game against Holt on Wednesday.

And he goes straight into Bash’s squad for their home Zamaretto League Premier Division clash against high-riding unbeaten Chippenham tomorrow (3pm).

Bash boss Steve Riley said: “Alex Pike at Gosport has been great in allowing us to sign Tom, who has been having difficulties travelling to play for them.

“He came in and got involved for us against Holt and we’ll put him in the squad for Saturday.

“Tom has got experience and can play in midfield or as a full back.

“He’s a versatile player who is comfortable on the ball and is a nice addition to our squad.”

Mitchell, 22, who linked up with Zamaretto Division One South and West outfit Gosport last season, takes young defender Mike Mead’s place in Bash’s squad for Chippenham’s visit.

Mead is set to sign dual registration with an undisclosed Sydenhams Wessex League Premier Division club, with Riley saying: “The idea is for Mike to get more games under his belt.”

Bash skipper Chris Knowles, meanwhile, said they have been boosted by their 4-1 league triumph at Weymouth on Monday that lifted them up to seventh from bottom.

The New Foresters, who had drawn 2-2 at home to Windsor & Eton on Saturday, ended a five-match winless run.

Knowles said: “We didn’t start the season well and there was a bit of pressure building up after we’d done so well last term.

“We only have a young team and are taking time to gel, so it was a big relief to beat Weymouth, although we hadn’t hit the panic button.

“Plus we should have beaten Windsor & Eton, but didn’t take our chances and gifted them two sloppy goals.

“We didn’t shore it up at the back and take our chances. But we did both on Monday and it seemed to pay off.

“Luke Whitley, from Poole Town, has come in for the last few games and helped us out at the back.

“He’s been given an opportunity and seems to have taken it.

“Luke had a few nerves against Windsor & Eton but the Weymouth game showed he has started to settle down and enjoy it.”

Bash midfielder Dominic Allen is still sidelined with an ankle injury.