IAN Hutchinson has snapped up Cameron Mawer and Jamie McGuinness ahead of his side’s Zamaretto Premier Division opener at Halesowen Town this afternoon.

The Weymouth boss has been relentlessly pursuing new recruits for several weeks now and these latest two additions are without a doubt his most significant captures of the summer so far.

Mawer and McGuinness have both played for the Terras before and their experience will no doubt prove vital as the club looks to wipe out its 10-point deficit as soon as possible with a positive start to the campaign.

Hutchinson, who is a firm believer that hard work gets results, said: “It has been a hectic and busy couple of days but we have managed to secure both Cameron and Jamie on non-contract terms.

“It has taken time with Cameron. He has had to think things through but the fact he has now committed himself to a third spell here is just absolutely fantastic. He has a great attitude and his experience will be of huge help both on and off the pitch.

“As for Jamie, he really enjoyed his football down here in his first spell despite very difficult circumstances and the fact he has also returned to the club is superb.

“Both Cameron and Jamie are very versatile and can play at the back or in midfield, and they both go straight into the squad for tomorrow.”

Another three signings that have been secured by the Terras are midfielder Richard Groves (ex-Oxford United), winger Matteo King (ex-Team Bath) and striker Warren Byerley (ex-Dorchester Town).

Groves has signed non-contract terms after turning down a deal at Blue Square Bet South side Hampton & Richmond, while King and Byerley have penned registration forms.

Hutchinson added: “Richard is a good passer of the ball. He is only 19 but he possesses quality and bags of potential.

“As for Warren and Matteo, they have signed registeration forms so we can take a longer look at them. They are both very keen to come in and have a go and that is good to see.

“Matteo showed some nice glimpses against Dorchester Town last Saturday and we are certainly looking forward to seeing more of what he can do over the next couple of weeks.”

Hutchinson’s men are expected to don black armbands at the Grove to mark the sad passing of club president and stalwart Bob Lucas, who died on Thursday.

As a further tribute to the ex-Terras’ goalkeeper, the club has also decided to postpone their second string’s Dorset Premier League opener against Merley Cobham Sports, which was scheduled to take place this afternoon at the Bob Lucas Stadium.

Hutchinson said: “The chairman wants to commemorate Bob in the right way by the first competitive match at the Bob Lucas Stadium being a first-team game.

“So the aim next Thursday, against Swindon Supermarine, is to honour the great work Bob did at the club with a celebration of his life, which he thoroughly deserves.

“It is a good decision by the chairman and hopefully people will come along and pay their respects.”

Reserve-team boss Brendon King, whose side will now begin their campaign at Portland United on Tuesday night (6.30pm), added: “The decision that has been taken by the chairman is completely understandable and it is not a problem at all. There are more important things in life than football.”