Wealdstone have made their third signing of the summer with the capture of experienced defensive midfielder David Hunt from Vanarama National League South rivals Margate.

The 33-year-old, who has more than 400 Football League appearances under his belt, joins striker Elliot Benyon and midfielder Danny Green on the new boys’ roster at the Freebets.co.uk Stadium.

But the Stones are not finished there. Boss Gordon Bartlett is hoping to get up to three more deals over the line before the side report back for pre-season training on June 23 – earlier than usual, to ensure they are fitter and ready to hit the ground running this term after last year’s false start.

He said: “I’m encouraged by what we have done so far and how it is shaping up at this stage. We’re talking to other players and we’ve got a few irons in the fire.

“There’s a lot of things going on behind the scenes which I think will give everybody an air of optimism at the start of the season.”

Bartlett is delighted with the work he has done so far this summer as he bids to rebuild the squad after losing the likes of last year’s player of the season Bradley Hudson-Odoi and Scott Davies.

He said: “That’s happened, we wish them well and we move on. Recruitment is massive and we’ve got one or two things very much in the pipeline still.”

This season’s squad will be smaller than last year’s and the club will utilise the loan market during the season if they get hit by injuries.

But Bartlett is pleased with the quality he has brought in so far and says his latest new recruit was high on his wish list.

Hunt has previously served Football League clubs Crystal Palace, Leyton Orient, Northampton Town, Brentford and Oxford United in a long and successful professional career.

Bartlett said: “He fits the profile we are looking for this season.

“With his experience, ability, strength and size, I’m sure he will have a very positive influence both on and off the pitch as we continue rebuilding the squad.

“He will be a massive influence on and off the pitch and he’s the right type for this club.”