RYAN Paddock has returned to Cinderford Town to help bolster the defensive options in John Brough’s title-challenging side.

Paddock left the Causeway club last year to join the armed forces but has been re-signed in a bid to plug any gaps and strengthen Town’s sqaud depth.

Matt Williams, the Gloucester City captain, continues his loan for another month.

City manager Tim Harris was present during last week’s 3-1 home win over Bishop’s Cleeve to run his eye over Williams and midfielder Sammie Hicks, who impressed both Harris and Town boss John Brough.

Cinderford Town chairman Ashley Saunders was delighted to welcome Paddock and Williams back, adding: “Hopefully he’ll help our side to be successful at the end of the season.

“John has been great for us; his hard work is paying off for the club and it’s good to give support to him.

“These are very exciting times for the club.

“Ryan just adds that little more finesse. He’s quite a good passer and he reads the game well. It’s nice for him to want to come back to Cinderford.”

Vice-chairman Stuart Tait echoed Saunders’ thoughts, and was pleased to have Williams return for another month after the club’s fixture list was ravaged by postponements.

“Nick Rhodes has a wedding this weekend, so he’s not available – although with the weather coming we’ll need more than crossed fingers to get the game ahead,” he said.

“It was a case of John and Gerry just covering all their bases. Ryan brings some experience at centre-half and allows John to play a back three.”