Braintree Town will have a new physiotherapist in their ranks next season.

Steve Gracie has made the switch from East Thurrock United to Cresssing Road, where he will be reunited with former Rooks boss Lee Patterson.

Gracie worked for the likes of Boreham Wood, Enfield and Dagenham and Redbridge in the past.

He replaces physio Becky Nutt, who has left the Blue Square South club.

Iron boss Patterson is delighted to have been reunited with his former East Thurrock club-mate.

He said: "Steve is a top drawer physio - I think he'll be our best signing of the summer.

"It's so important that we keep clear of injuries if we want to challenge for promotion."

Patterson is still assessing his playing squad ahead of the new season.

He is currently running the rule over former Cambridge City defender Joe Bruce, who is a free agent after leaving City.

Justin Roberts, formerly of Weymouth, is also training with Braintree, as is ex-Dorchester Town player John Docker.

However, one player who will not be at Cressing Road next season is Ian Cousins.

The former Heybridge Swifts defender has left Braintree, after turning down the offer of a short-term deal.

Patterson added: "Ian had a decision to make.

"He wanted the security of a longer deal but he goes with our best wishes."