Grantham Town have signed former Spalding United defender Nathan Stainfield

Nathan Stainfield is to lead Grantham Town into their new era after being appointed captain at the United Counties League club.

Stainfield arrives at The Meres with a formidable track record in non-league football, having made more than 300 appearances for Spalding United during a highly respected tenure.

He has also featured for Boston United and Gainsborough Trinity and spent last season in the Northern Premier League with Wellingborough Town.

Stainfield said: "I'm delighted to join Grantham.

"It's a great club with a lot of history and I'm really looking forward to trying my best to help get them back to where they belong."

A commanding figure on the pitch, Stainfield is known for his leadership, fearless defending and unwavering commitment.

They are qualities that perfectly align with Grantham Town's ambitions under new chairman Nick Johnston and manager Mitch Griffiths.

Griffiths said: "Nathan is exactly the kind of leader we need — experienced, composed, passionate, and with a real never-say-die attitude.

"He leads by example and his presence will be vital both in the dressing room and out on the pitch."

Stainfield's arrival follows that of experienced defender Michael Jacklin who has previously played for Lincoln United, Corby Town, Gainsborough Trinity and Loughborough Dynamo.

Jacklin said: "Once speaking to Mitch and he told me his plans it was an easy decision for me.

"Grantham is a well followed club and hopefully as a team we can give them something to shout about this season."

Boss Griffiths added: "As soon as I knew Jaffa was available he was a must have.

"He brings so much experience at step three and four and he's a true professional, a perfect role model for some of our youngsters coming through to learn from."

Two players who won the United Counties League title last season with Lincoln United have also switched to the Gingerbreads.

Centre half Sean Wright has also tasted success step four title success with Stamford while experienced custodian Steggles has also played at higher level with Carlton Town.

Steggles said: "I'm absolutely buzzing to be joining Grantham Town.

"Having played against the club several times over the years, I've always admired the passion and loyalty of the fans, the support from everyone home and away is special.

"It feels great to now be part of the footballing family and I can't wait to get going.

"I'm excited to play my part in turning the tide and helping get Grantham back to where they belong, pushing for promotion and fighting to get back to step four and beyond. Let’s get to work"

Grantham have also strengthened their squad by signing Dan Dougill who skippered Deeping Rangers last season.

Dougill played with the Gingerbreads boss at Holbeach United and has also had a spell with Wisbech Town after spending time in America.

Dougill said: "Grantham is a massive club for this level and I am really excited for the opportunity to be a part of the rebuild.

"Having played with Mitch a few years ago, I know he is a winner, so I am looking forward to now playing under him and giving the club something to cheer about."

Sam Edgington is also returning to the Gingerbreads having featured 33 times for the club last season.

He started his career with Notts County and boss Griffiths was pleased to retain his services.

Griffiths commented: "We had Sam at a couple of sessions last season and his sharpness and quality on the ball really stood out to me.

"I'm really looking forward to working with him properly as I believe he has the attributes to really push us forward."

Griffiths has also assembled his backroom team ahead of the new United Counties League campaign.

Tom Ford - who finished last season in charge of the team following the departure of Nathan Arnold - has been appointed as assistant manager.

Jake Sleaford has joined the club as physio while Garry Doran is the new goalkeeper coach.