By CONRAD SUTCLIFFE

PLYMOUTH have started squad strengthening for their return to the Tolchards DCL Premier Division next season by re-signing all-rounder Hal Kerton from Plymstock.

Kerton, who will be 30 in July next year, has had spells with Plympton and Plymstock either side of two previous stints with Plymouth. His last stay at Mount Wise ended in 2021, when the city side finished third in the top flight.

Plymouth and Plymstock went in opposite directions at the end of last season: Plymouth back to the Premier Division after two seasons in the A Division; Plymstock back to the B Division 12 months after winning promotion.

During his two previous spells with Plymouth (2014-18, 2020-2021), Kerton scored more than 2,000 league runs and bagged 74 wickets with his brisk medium-quick bowling. Days to remember were a century against Plympton (2021) and a four-wicket haul against Bovey Tracey (2015).

Sam Stein, the Plymouth captain, said Kerton is a more-than-useful addition to the squad as he adds quality to both departments.

“Hal increases our depth of batting having shown his Premier Division quality in the past with some very good seasons for us with the bat,” said Stein.

“Hal also offers a good seam-bowling option, which is something we require.

“All in all, Hal is a great addition for us on our way back up.”

James Nicholls, the outgoing Plymstock captain, said he sensed Kerton could be on the move once relegation became inevitable.

“I think Premier cricket could be the lure, that and Hal living close to Mount Wise and being good friends with Sam and Ben Stein,” said Nicholls.

“Everyone at Plymstock wishes Hal all the best at Plymouth – and he will always be a great mate to everyone in our dressing room.”