The Isthmian South Central newcomers at Bognor Regis Town have added two players with Football League and academy experience as Danny Hollands prepares for the coming campaign. Among the recruits is Jake Scrimshaw, who previously had spells at Football League clubs including Walsall, Newport County and Scunthorpe United.
What the signings are and why they matter
Bognor have announced the arrivals of 25-year-old striker Jake Scrimshaw and 19-year-old left-back Ben Sheaf. Scrimshaw spent last season with East Cowes Victoria and came through youth ranks at AFC Bournemouth. His recent clubs include Eastleigh, AFC Totton, Poole, Gosport Borough and AFC Stoneham. Sheaf is a Southampton Academy product who has also represented Aldershot U23s.
- Jake Scrimshaw — age 25, forward; recent club East Cowes Victoria; former youth at AFC Bournemouth; past spells include Walsall, Newport County, Scunthorpe United, Eastleigh, AFC Totton, Poole, Gosport Borough, AFC Stoneham.
- Ben Sheaf — age 19, left-back; former Southampton Academy and U18s; Aldershot U23s experience.
Local links and implications for supporters
For followers in Walsall, Scrimshaw’s move is a reminder of the interchange of players between the Football League and the non-league pyramid. Players who have appeared for clubs such as Walsall often move between professional and semi-professional ranks, and Bognor’s recruitment shows the appeal of experienced attacking options to clubs aiming to be competitive in the Isthmian South Central division.
“We have told Scrimmy to come in and enjoy his football. He has bags of talent and we are keen to be able to unlock that ability because there is a fantastic footballer in there.”
The assistant manager, Ben Kneller, added that Scrimshaw is "fit as a fiddle, can run all the day" and that the club believe his background at league clubs gives them confidence he can be an asset.
Quick reference: clubs mentioned
| Player | Age | Recent/Notable Clubs |
|---|---|---|
| Jake Scrimshaw | 25 | East Cowes Victoria; AFC Bournemouth (youth); Walsall; Newport County; Scunthorpe United; Eastleigh; AFC Totton; Poole; Gosport Borough; AFC Stoneham |
| Ben Sheaf | 19 | Southampton Academy/U18s; Aldershot U23s |
Bognor are expected to give supporters a chance to see the new signings during a pre-season friendly at Nyewood Lane when they host Chichester City, kick-off 1pm. For Walsall followers tracking former players, Scrimshaw’s move will be one to watch as clubs below the Football League continue to strengthen ahead of the new season.
