DORCHESTER Town have secured the services of talented centre-back Louie Slough, midfielder Charlie Gunson and striker Matt Neale on permanent deals.

Slough, 21, was released by National League side Torquay United after failing to break into the first team on a regular basis.

The Bideford man had already joined Dorchester for two loan spells in his career, making nine appearances, including in a loan spell at the end of last season.

Speaking on his latest new signing, manager Glenn Howes said: "We of course know all about Louie’s qualities after having two separate loan spells with us from Torquay, and we’re extremely happy to announce this move is now made permanent.

READ MORE: Shaquille Gwengwe joins Dorchester Town

"We’re looking forward to continuing the good work and foundations that have been laid by Torquay, in setting out a pathway that will allow Louie to flourish.

"Louie’s attributes will undoubtedly improve the team and he fits in significantly well in terms of what we’re looking to create here at Dorchester Town."

Gunson, meanwhile, has re-signed just two months after leaving the Magpies.

Dorset Echo: Charlie Gunson has re-signed with the Magpies Picture: DTFCCharlie Gunson has re-signed with the Magpies Picture: DTFC (Image: DORCHESTER TOWN FC)

He was tempted away from Wimborne Town midway through last season and went on to make 19 appearances, without a goal, for the Avenue Stadium side.

Howes said: "We’re extremely pleased to announce that we’ve finally managed to retain Charlie’s services.

"Negotiations stalled somewhat and there were some concerns with the number of departures from the club.

"However, with the squad taking shape I think Charlie can see himself having a real impact amongst this group of players.

"Again there is a real desire from both parties to improve on last year and we all feel with a few tweaks this is achievable."

Meanwhile, Neale joins from newly-promoted Southern League Division One South side Hamworthy United.

Dorset Echo: Matt Neale joins Dorchester Town from Hamworthy United Picture: DTFCMatt Neale joins Dorchester Town from Hamworthy United Picture: DTFC (Image: DORCHESTER TOWN FC)

Neale scored 15 goals in 33 games for the Hammers last season.

He counts AFC Bournemouth Academy, Poole Town and Christchurch among his former clubs and has trained with Dorchester since their return on June 28.

Neale featured in the in-house friendly on Friday night wearing the 11 shirt for Dorchester Yellows.

Howes said: "Matt was brought to our attention last season and we’ve continued to monitor, but understandably it was difficult to acquire his services.

"Matt joins us on the back of a hugely successful season with Hamworthy United and we’d like to thank Tim (Sills, boss) and his team for their part in supporting Matt’s career.

"We’ve been fortunate enough to have witnessed Matt’s ability this past week and we’re convinced his creativity in the final third and work ethic will stand him in good stead for Step 3 football."

Gunson, Slough and Neale both played in Dorchester's in-house friendly on Friday and could feature against AFC Portchester (7.45pm) this evening.

Slough, Neale and Gunson are the 12th, 13th and 14th players to sign permanently this season after Brad Snelling, Shaq Gwengwe, Callum Buckley, Tiago Sa, Harvey-Joe Bertrand, Alfie Stanley, Keith Emmerson, Kieran Douglas, Olly Balmer, Ollie Griggs and Michael Lilley.