CINDERFORD Town have been handed a Southern League reprieve – but it comes at the expense of another club folding.

The Foresters were expecting to be playing in the Hellenic League next season after losing a play-off final.

But the closure of Premier Division South side Walton Casuals has meant a wholesale shake-up of the league.

A spokesman for Cinderford Town said: “We’re delighted to announce that the club has been granted a reprieve and will remain in the Southern League for 2022/23 following the withdrawal of Walton Casuals.

“Whilst this is great news for our club, thoughts go out to Walton Casuals and their supporters.”

The Surrey club’s withdrawal from the league also means that Merthyr Town – managed by former Foresters boss Paul Michael – retain their Premier Division status.

There has been plenty more positive news for the club following the announcement of the reprieve with players committing to The Causeway and a new signing.

The new face is Mike Symons who has signed from Evesham United.

The former Weston, Hereford, Worcester City, Gloucester City player is also a coach.

Cinderford manger Alex Sykes said: “t’s a big deal us getting to sign Symo at last.

“He will give us a great focal point moving forwards and is still extremely hungry for success.

“With Morf (assistant Will Morford) and myself both having played with Mike we are well aware of his strengths.

“Additionally as another experienced voice, he will make a big difference in and around the training ground and dressing room, especially with some of our younger players.”

A number of players have also committed themselves to The Causeway, including captain Dion Molyneux, Player of the Year Harry Emmett, Tris Haswell, Jack Bartman, Will Emery, Jack Freeman and Jack Meredith.

Sykes said: ““I’m really pleased to have agreed terms with a number of key, influential players from last year with undoubted Southern League quality.

“Dion, Tris and Harry were all at the forefront of end of season awards so to have all three agree is a great start.

There was a further with Ben Brooks declining several offers from other Southern League clubs.

Sykes said: ““I’m really happy to get a hungry Brooksy back this season.

“He certainly scored some memorable goals last year and his experience will be an asset to us up front.

“I’m excited about a possible partnership with Symo and think they could prove a potent force.”

Also turning down a potential move was Jamie Bremner who commits to Town on a more permanent basis after having dual registration with Hellenic side Brimscombe and Thrupp last season.