NO-NONSENSE defender Chris Ribchester has rejoined FC Clacton.

The towering centre-half has returned to the Seasiders after a spell at coastal neighbours Holland FC.

He was at Saturday's opening training session and signed Thurlow Nunn League registration forms on Tuesday night.

“Ribbo’s someone I've known for a long time so I'm particularly excited about this signing," said delighted Clacton manager Tom Austin.

"He's a natural leader and a big presence at the heart of the defence.

“He’s played at a higher level and a familiar face with the fans, who love him from his time at the club before.

“It’s an area I wanted to strengthen because on occasions last season we got a little dominated at set-pieces.

“But if Ribbo’s fit, committed and playing week in, week out, doing what he’s best at, I think he can help us have another really good season."

Ribchester, who also played for Stanway Rovers and Heybridge Swifts, has become Clacton's third summer signing, following in the footsteps of Brad Westley, who has rejoined from Harwich and Parkeston, and AFC Sudbury loanee Mekhi McKenzie.

Austin was delighted with the turnout for Saturday's opening training session, with all eyes now on the club's opening friendly at Harwich on July 2.

“I was really pleased with the numbers," said the Clacton boss.

"We had 18 there and that was without four or five others, including Karl Andrade, Adam Hampson, Jack Clampin and Adam Daniels.

“We had four different stations for the players to work at, with lunch in the middle, and the boys seemed to enjoy it and be impressed.

“They’re fit lads anyway and they look after themselves, so it’s just a question of getting match-fit.

“We’ve got some really good friendlies and we’re looking forward to them all, especially the ones against Heybridge, Brightlingsea, Coggeshall and Romford.

“It’s always important to test yourself against opponents from a higher level and I’m sure that after those games we’ll be raring to go by the start of the season."