BRIDPORT will go into the new season without Jamie Filkins following his decision to join Western League rivals Gillingham Town.

Filkins’ switch comes some five months after goalkeeper brother Sam also left the Bees for the Hardings Lane outfit.

Utility man Filkins, who missed the tail end of last term to go travelling, had been part of boss Trevor Senior’s squad at St Mary’s Field for three years.

Speaking about Filkins’ move, Senior said: “Jamie has decided to go to Gillingham, which is a shame.

“But like Dan Wise, I can see the reasons for him wanting to go.

“He lives that way, his brother plays there, and his parents are keen supporters so they’ll get to watch them in the same team.

“Jamie said it was the biggest decision he has had to make in football.

“I would like to wish him all the best and if he ever wants to come back he would be more than welcome.

“He was with us for three years and had a great attitude, and you can’t fault that.

“He is a good utility player and we will miss him, but we’ve also got to move on.”

He added: “In Dan Peach we have found a good prospect and I’m pleased with how he has done so far.”

Ryan Dovell, Matt Condliffe, Tom Richardson and Rhys Hayter scored in Bridport’s 4-0 friendly win over Chard Town last weekend.

They host Plymouth Parkway this Saturday (3pm), while the reserves entertain Dorchester Town’s reserves tonight (7pm).