REECE Harris has signed on the dotted line for Heybridge Swifts.

Harris, who had been at the club when they were in the Ryman Premier, returned to Swifts in March on loan from Concord Rangers.

Harris has shown great pace and ability to score as well as setting up goals at Swifts this season.

Manager Jody Brown said: “This is excellent news for us, he influenced games during the run in.

“I had hoped that Reece would buy into the club and the way the staff and I worked during his loan spell''

“He ticks every box for the club and the way I want to move forward.

“He’s quick, techinically good, ambitious, local and wants to play a big part in moving this club up the ladder.

Brown has also secured the signature of midfielder Michael Toner, who has signed a new deal at the club.

He said: “I am pleased to retain Michael.

“He is a versatile player and has that edge about him that’s needed to win.”

Brown worked with Toner at Maldon & Tiptree and is keen to continue the association with him.

He added: “I’ve had two-and-a-half very successful seasons with Michael and we want to continue that.”

But there have been more departures from the club.

Central Defender Taylor Hastings has opted for a move away.

Taylor made 115 appearances for the Heybridge Swifts first team, having been at the club within the youth ranks for a number of years.

With offers on the table from Chelmsford City and Enfield Town the 22-year-old has yet to decide where his future will be and is considering the offers.

Brown said: “I would have loved to have kept Taylor but it was very difficult to argue a case against wanting to play at a higher level.

“I’m sure he will do well wherever he goes.”

Taylor has also been joined at the exit door by supporters’ player-of-the-year Ben Newson and Neil Cousins.

Brown said: “Ben proved to have a very strong character and was prolific in the run-in.

“He will be missed in the dressing room and by the fans but we have alternatives and this may open the door for some of our younger players.

“Neil’s been a good player for Heybridge over the years and it’s a shame we couldn’t come to agreement as his quality and experience were beneficial during my time at the club.”

With some of last season’s squad retained and some notable departures, Brown said: “It may seem that we are losing quite a few, but the supporters must have faith in what is happening behind closed doors.

“The squad will be strong and we will build on last season’s good run.”