Wisbech Town sign new goalkeeper as preparations continue for forthcoming UCL Premier Division North season

Wisbech Town have softened the blow of losing goalkeeper Will Lakin by bringing in Aaron Watson between the posts.

Former Heacham shotstopper Watson arrives at Fountain Fresh Park having made 117 appearances for the Magpies, keeping 34 clean sheets, during his three years at the Thurlow Nunn Premier Division club.

Fenmen boss Luke Hipwell said: “Losing your goalkeeper at the start of any pre-season is always a blow, but I knew Lakes would get interest as he performed well last season.

"We have to move on, and I am delighted that we have been able to capture the services of Aaron Watson.

"Aaron brings excellent leadership qualities, is a good shot stopper, dedicated to his craft, and is another hometown player.”

The key focus for the club during the off-season has been continuity, with the retention of the core squad a major plus as they look to build on last year’s foundations.

The Wisbech boss said: “Retainment of the majority of last season’s squad has been crucial, along with some good signings and I hope we make a positive start.

"We are still looking to add a couple in certain positions but we are only looking to add quality and lads that would add value and be good characters in the dressing room.”

The future of youngster Paulius Falcao, who is currently contracted to King's Lynn Town, also remains up in the air.

“Paulius is a player who has lots of potential and showed good progress last season," said Hipwell.

"Whether or not he will be joining us in one capacity next season remains unknown, but he is someone I’d be keen to work with again."

The Fenmen's preparations for the new season are already well underway.

Hipwell reflected positively on the early stages, highlighting the encouraging turnout and work ethic from the squad.

“It’s been a good start to pre-season, the numbers to training have been excellent and the lads have worked hard,” he said.

“We’ve completed some testing, had one tough session, and did a team-building activity at the Aqua Park on Saturday.”

That aqua park trip took place at Fenland Aqua Park in Whittlesey and proved to be a popular and strategic break from the normal routine.

“We wanted to change the schedule up and do something different,” said Hipwell.

“We felt, given the weather conditions on Saturday, combined with an activity which incorporated a cardio element and a bit of fun, it would work well.

"The lads enjoyed it and it was a good exercise that covered lots of areas – we have a really good group of people, which is equally important.”