AMBITIOUS Trowbridge Town have re-signed giant centre forward Mike Little as the Bees prepare to mount a challenge for the Hellenic League title.

Little, who quit Trowbridge two years ago to join neighbours Bradford Town, was one of three new players to sign for the club on Tuesday. Influential Bradford midfielder Nathan Flower and Odd Down defender Aaron Salter have also put pen to paper.

In a week of transfer drama at Woodmarsh, goalkeeper Adam Shepherd has performed a u-turn and decided to stay at the club, just weeks after agreeing to sign for Larkhall Athletic. With former Melksham Town striker Matt Minnis already on board, manager Paul Shanley is confident of a successful campaign.

He said: "I'm delighted with the new signings we have made this week. It shows we are looking to build a squad capable of challenging for honours next season." Shanley said he was particularly pleased to have netted fans' favourite Little, who first joined Trowbridge as a teenager in 1999.

"Mike was very popular in his first spell here and I'm sure the supporters will be pleased to see him back. "As a striker he brings a whole new dimension to the team. We already have players who are confident on the floor but Mike's height will give us an added advantage."

Little, 26, does not view his switch from Western League outfit Bradford Town as a step down. He believes the Bees have enough fire power to set the Hellenic League alight next season. "The aim is to transform Trowbridge into the best club in Wiltshire. I believe we have the potential to be even bigger and better than Chippenham Town," he said.

"This season is a new beginning for the club. With the plans for the new £2million stadium on the way, things are really looking up."

Former Bradford team-mate Nathan Flower, 19, is also confident he has made the right move this summer.

He said:"I learned a lot under Mark Hodkinson at Bradford but as a club, they are looking to consolidate. Trowbridge have ambitions to be one of the best teams around and I want to be a part of that."

Shanley has identified the industrious Flower as a key figure in his new-look squad. The versatile midfielder can play in the centre, on the wing or as a second striker. "Nathan is another promising player who has decided his future lies at Trowbridge. At training he has proven himself to be one of the fittest in the squad - it's great to see everyone working so hard."

Shanley has also been impressed with former Swindon Town Youth defender Salter, who enjoyed a brief spell at Toolstation Premier Division outfit Frome Town. Salter, 20, is hoping to force his way into the team with some strong performances in pre-season friendlies.

He said: "I know Paul and a few of the other lads and I'm really looking forward to the new season already. "It's up to me to prove I am fit enough to earn a starting place. There will be lots of competition in the squad."

Shanley expects to make at least one more signing before the end of what promises to be a revolutionary summer for the Woodmarsh club.