Bishop’s Cleeve have strengthened their squad ahead of the 2026/27 Southern League season by signing four new players, blending fresh talent with familiar faces.
Under manager Paul Collicutt, the Mitres have already kicked off their pre-season with mixed results. They secured a commanding 3-0 victory against Droitwich Spa but fell 3-1 to Robbie Savage’s Forest Green Rovers in their latest outing.
Forward Jamal Lawrence was a standout in the opener, scoring two goals after coming on as a half-time substitute. The 29-year-old joined the club from Melksham Town and brings valuable experience from his professional days at Cheltenham Town. Lawrence’s career has also included spells with Tuffley Rovers, Hungerford Town, Gloucester City, and Fairford Town. Notably, he had a loan stint at Bishop’s Cleeve during his youth academy days with the Robins.
READ MORE: Shocking Survey Uncovers Public Harassment of Young Women and Girls in Cheltenham
READ MORE: Serious Crash Closes Forest of Dean B-Road, Man Hospitalized
Joining Lawrence from Melksham Town is winger Charlie Holliday, who netted the third goal against Droitwich Spa, further boosting Cleeve’s attacking options.
In addition, seasoned duo Matt Bower and Aaron Evans-Harriott return to Kayte Lane. Bower, a left-footed centre-half, comes back after playing in Australia, while Evans-Harriott, a pacey winger, boasts previous experience with Coventry City and Evesham United, alongside his former stint at Cheltenham Town.
In the Forest Green fixture, midfielder Reegan Messenger scored Cleeve’s lone goal in the 18th minute, with both Evans-Harriott and Holliday contributing to the attack.
The club has seen some departures over the summer, including Noah Rubio, who signed for King’s Lynn Town, Jay Malshanskyj moving to Malvern Town, and Joe Jeremiah now with Chippenham Town.
Bishop’s Cleeve’s preparations continue with a friendly against Cheltenham Saracens scheduled for Saturday afternoon at 3pm.