BRIDGWATER United FC have signed a new keeper as youngster Isaac Finch has joined Bristol City.

Luke Purnell has joined the Robins after departing Weston-super-Mare AFC last week.

Finch, who has been an important player for Bridgwater since moving into the starting eleven this season has been rewarded with a move to Bristol City.

The 16-year-old will continue his development with the Championship club and as well as his education.

Purnell brings a wealth of experience with him to Bridgwater United having made 355 appearances for the Seagulls after over two stints at the club starting out in the Under 18s.

Bridgwater United owner Ian Davis said: "I would like to say a huge thank you to Kevin Hurd and Nigel in Thailand for bringing a tremendous signing to Bridgwater United.

"The arrival of Luke Purnell from Step 3 Weston-super-Mare as the new goalkeeper ushers in a new era at the club as we finish the second half of the season strong and showing our intentions for the future."

He added a nice tribute to Finch. He said: "I am sure people are aware Issac has been snapped up deservedly so by Bristol city.

"We would like to thank Isaac for being a safe pair of hands at such a young age, and he will always have a home with us at Bridgy and we will follow his future career with great interest."

Davis finished by saying: "Luke brings a wealth of knowledge and commandment to the team. A top goalkeeper Weston's loss is Bridgwater's gain.

"Again, a huge thank you to Kevin Hurd and Nigel for making this possible. Onwards and upwards and up the Bridgy."

After enjoying a strong January, Bridgwater have suffered back to back defeats, one in the league and one in the Les Phillips Cup. Manager Andy Lewellyn has said it is important his side bounce back.

We've gone five or six unbeaten, had a great January in the league and the Vase, you cant go through a whole season or month without losing, but it is important how you bounce back," he said.

"A long way to go still, still go 12 league games to, Helston look good to win the league but second place is still up for grabs.

"We're fighting away to get first place, but worst case scenario we have to get second place because if you get that you home in the playoff semi finals and if you win that you're at home in the final. So a long way to go yet."

Next up for Bridgwater United is a top of the table clash at home against Helston Athletic on Saturday, February 17. A big match indeed.