Tom Holdstock said Halstead Town’s promotion ambitions were a big part of his decision to join the Humbugs.

The former Heybridge Swifts and FC Clacton striker (pictured above) became the first addition of the summer a few weeks ago as Town look to build towards Thurlow Nunn League division one success this year.

Manager Mark Benterman said he wanted the team to carry a greater goal threat this year, so was delighted to have Holdstock on board and the striker is equally pleased to link up with a manager who clearly believes in his ability.

Holdstock said: “I had been talking to Mark (Benterman) for a couple of weeks before about the possibility of signing for Halstead.

“He told me the ambitions of the club and what is going on in and around the club.

“A major factor for me signing was that the club’s main priority this season is to win promotion and that is something that I would love to be a part of.

“Also, Mark has tried to sign me for the last couple of seasons and I know that he is a firm believer in me and my footballing ability.

“I want to play for a manager who has confidence in me and will help me get back to my goal scoring ways.

“I want to re-pay Mark for putting his faith in me by being the 20-goals-a-season man he has been looking for and I believe with a good pre-season under my belt and the support from the management team and my new team-mates that this year could be a huge success.”