FORMER Hereford United skipper Tony James is among four players who have agreed terms with Midland League Premier Division Hereford.

The 36-year-old, who lives in the city, made 273 appearances for United between 1998 and 2006, and has just left Newport County.

Ex-Frome Town player Dylan Bonella, former Evesham winger Max Kontic-Coveney and former Gloucester City goalkeeper Harvey Rivers have also signed for the Edgar Street side.

Manager Peter Beadle said he was very pleased with his first four signings for the new Hereford club.

"Tony James needs no introduction to Bulls fans and I think he will be a great signing,” said Beadle.

“I am delighted he has agreed to come back, as his experience and character will be hugely influential in the upcoming seasons.

“Young goalkeeper Harvey Rivers – who started out at Edgar Street before doing his scholarship at Cheltenham Town – has recently been furthering his education at Hartpury and was second choice goalkeeper at Gloucester City last season.

“He was offered new terms by the Conference North side after playing well in their final game of the season, but has opted to come to us instead."

Beadle continued: “Dylan Bonella was the Hereford United youth team captain in 2013/14 and was offered pro terms by the old club. Sadly this contract never transpired. Last season he made over 30 appearances for Frome in the Southern League Premier.

“Another member of my successful youth team, Max Kontic-Coveney is a versatile player who can play anywhere across the back four or in midfield.

“Max was also offered pro terms by the old club in 2013/14, but he also didn’t get the chance he deserve at that point.

“After that disappointment he then went to USA to play for a short spell before returning home in December, and finishing last season on the books at Evesham.”

Hereford United were expelled from the Conference Premier due to financial problems in June 2014.

United were in the Southern League Premier Division, under Andy Lonsdale's controversial chairmanship, when they were wound-up in the High Court in December after failing to provide proof they had funds to meet mounting debts.

Beadle added: “Rest assured that as soon as other players agree terms we will let everyone know, but I would like to thank everyone for their patience in advance because building a successful squad is something that will take time.”