Former Peterborough and Gillingham midfielder joins Eastbourne Borough

Experienced and powerful midfielder Chris Whelpdale has agreed terms with the club, after relocating to the South Coast from Chelmsford City – where he spent the last two seasons, making 66 appearances and scoring 17 goals.

“Chris will be a huge presence in our squad, and around the club,” commented a buoyant Bloor at Borough’s first full training session on Tuesday night. “He would claim a place in many managers’ Team of the Season in National South. Chris’s record in the game speaks for itself and we are delighted to welcome him at the Lane.”

Whelpdale notched up 337 Football League appearances – and a highly impressive 52 goals from midfield – in a career that took him from Peterborough to Gillingham, Stevenage and AFC Wimbledon. At Chelmsford, he also had a spell as assistant manager when Clarets boss Rod Stringer left the Essex club in mid-season.

Chairman John Bonar also announced today (Wednesday) the return of popular goalkeeper Franco Ravizzoli, and stylish midfielder – and Herald columnist – James Ferry.

“Both players have agreed terms and signed subject to FA ratification,” said Bonar. “The FA process, understandably, is taking a little longer this year, but we are well on track with our team-building.”

With a restart date of October 3, the Sports are training on Tuesday nights – rising to twice a week later in August – and Bloor says he wants to get the fun back. “We have quite a long lead-in to the new season, and the match fitness will build steadily. Tuesdays at present are about enjoying our football and getting to know each other”

A remarkable 26 players turned out at the Lane on Tuesday. “There are plenty of young and eager footballers right now, all bursting to show what they can do!” commented Bonar. “After all the stress and trauma, this is a great time to get back out there, and revel in their football.