Hereford United manager Graham Turner has completed his first summer signing with the capture of midfielder Ben Smith from South-end United.

The 23-year-old former Yeovil Town player has joined the Bulls on a one-year deal after an injury troubled spell with the Shrimpers.

Smith started out as a schoolboy with Arsenal and also had a spell with Reading before Dave Webb brought him to Roots Hall.

However Smith endured a miserable season at Southend picking up a succession of injuries and admits he is delighted with his move to Edgar Street.

"Last season was a bit of a nightmare," said Smith.

"I bruised my foot in pre-season and then when I came back I tore my cartilage in training.

"Eventually I had an operation on it in November and starting playing for the reserves again in January.

"I was doing quite well and scored a few goals but then pulled my thigh muscle which ruled me out until just before the end of the season.

"Southend offered me a month-to-month contract but I thought that was too much of a risk with the way football's finances are at the moment.

"I spoke to Graham Turner and was very impressed with his plans for Hereford so I'm pleased to have signed."

Meanwhile former Edgar Street stars Rob Elmes and Jimmy Quiggin have signed for Halesowen Town as has another Hereford old boy, Richard Leadbeater.

Striker Steve Piearce, who was also released in the summer, is poised to sign for Hednesford Town in a two year deal.