Felixstowe & Walton today sealed the signature of Jack Ainsley, writes Barry Grossmith.

The former Leiston midfielder has joined his home-town club, who are now playing at Step 4, after a busy few days for the Seasiders, which also saw them sign Rhys Henry from Maldon & Tiptree.

Speaking about Ainsley’s capture, joint Seasiders’ manager Kevin O’Donnell said: “Signing a player of Jack’s quality is a statement of intent from Felixstowe this season.

“We needed players that could fit into our changing room and strengthen us on the pitch. Jack ticks all those boxes and I’m really excited to work with him this season as we continue our journey.”

Ainsley, a local Felixstowe lad with plenty of experience gained at Ipswich Town, Histon, Lowestoft Town and Leiston said: “I’m delighted to have joined my home town club…..the ambition of the club is very appealing.”

Joint manager Ian Watson, who has known Jack since he was a youth team player, added: “It was only a matter of time before Jack came home to Felixstowe and it’s a major coup to have him at the club.

“It’s a privilege to be able to manage him at Felixstowe and I’m looking forward to seeing the brothers Ainsley playing together at The Goldstar this season.”

In another exciting move, Henry, an attacking midfielder, also joins the Seasiders, re-uniting him with O’Donnell who he played under at Needham Market.

More recently, Henry has gained further experience playing with Leiston and Sudbury and of course, Maldon & Tiptree.

O’Donnell said: “I am looking forward to working with Rhys again. He is a perfect fit in our squad and brings a lot of Bostik League experience which will be vital for us this season.”

O’Donnell and Watson are continuing to work very hard behind the scenes ensuring Felixstowe & Walton will be fully prepared for the challenging season ahead in Bostik North.

n Meanwhile AFC Sudbury have made their first signing for the new season with ex-AFC Academy scholar and first-team player Jordan Blackwell returning to the club from Stanway Rovers.

Sudbury manager Mark Morsley said: ‘I knew Jordy from his first time at the club and actually tried to sign him last season.”