Ardal Leagues: 37-goal star and Newport County record maker part of quadruple transfer swoop

Ardal Leagues side Chepstow Town have opened their summer transfer business with a quintet of signings from league rivals Goytre.

The transfer registration window opened on Monday, June 15, and the Ardal South East club have wasted no time strengthening ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

Manager Marc Ingles, re-appointed late last season, successfully guided Chepstow Town to retention of their third-tier status and has since turned to his former club Goytre for reinforcements, with one player making a return to Larkfield Park after following him to Plough Road last term.

Change afoot in Ardal Leagues South East

Last season’s Golden Boot winner Chris Ham headlines Chepstow Town’s transfer activity. The 33-year-old striker scored 37 goals in 30 league appearances last season, adding 10 assists.

Ham has been a standout performer in the third tier, finishing as the top scorer in the division in three campaigns. While much of his success has come with Goytre, he has also had a spell with Blaenavon Blues.

Speaking on the signing, manager Marc Ingles said: “I’m delighted to announce the signing of Hammy. I worked with him last season, and his effort and work rate in games and training is excellent. He scores goals, and these will be vital in our push for success.”

Former Newport County man back at Chepstow

Following him is Sonny Lewis, who returns to Chepstow Town after a year away. Lewis, who previously became Newport County’s youngest-ever player when he made his professional debut at 15, made 23 appearances last season, contributing two league goals and nine assists.

He is a former Wales U17 international and featured in a youth setup alongside players such as Charlie Crew and Luke Harris, both of whom have gone on to professional careers.

Speaking on his return, manager Marc Ingles said: “He has excellent technique and his delivery from set pieces is fantastic. Sonny had two very good years at the club, and I can’t wait to see him link up with the strikers again.”

Goalkeeper Matt Morris also joins Chepstow Town to compete for the number one shirt while also taking up a role on the coaching staff.

The 35-year-old spent last season primarily as backup to Joe Massaro but brings a wealth of experience, having previously played for Abercarn United, Hay St Mary’s, Newport Saints, Croesyceiliog and PILCS. He is also an FAW-licensed goalkeeping coach, which adds an extra dimension to his arrival.

Manager Marc Ingles said, “Mozza is a guy that I wanted to bring to the club. As well as a very good goalkeeper, he is an FAW licensed goalkeeping coach, so he will bring quality to the club on the pitch and training ground.”

Rounding off their business for now is midfielder Sam Broadribb. The 26-year-old missed just one league match last season, contributing four goals and eight assists. He has previously played at this level for Newport Corinthians and Undy.

Ingles added: “Sam is a young midfield player who can quickly turn defence into attack with powerful and purposeful running with the ball. He has an eye for goal and will add quality to our side. I’ve worked with Sam since his youth days, and I know he’ll fit in well.”