BROMSGROVE Sporting have acted quickly after the departure of keeper Ollie Taylor by signing Charlie Price.

Manager Paul Smith said Taylor had changed his mind after accepting a contract offer with Price, 28, quickly arriving from Southern League Premier Division Central rivals Stourbridge where he spent six years.

Smith said: “Ollie has made me aware over the weekend that, although he had signed the contract offer to remain with us, he would now like to keep his options open.

“I have no problem with that but ultimately I only want players here that want to be here and if Ollie is having doubts I’m glad he has told me now.

“On the back of that, I withdrew the contract offer and hold no ill feelings to Ollie at all. He has been brilliant for the club — I thank him for his efforts and wish him well going forward.

“On the back of Ollie’s departure, it was imperative that I worked quickly to secure a new number one. In my opinion, it’s the most important position and one I wasn’t willing to wait on.

“Ollie’s shoes are big ones to fill so I’m absolutely delighted to have been able to secure my first choice in big Charlie Price.

“He’s a fantastic goalkeeper with a huge personality that will help the youngsters we are bringing in.

“He has been top drawer at this level for Stourbridge for a number of years.

“I’m a firm believer of everything happening for a reason and I think signing Charlie as our new number one is a big acquisition for us.”

Price, who is set to complete his move on July 1, said: “I met with the gaffer and it was brilliant to feel wanted. He explained the plan and it’s clear to see the size and potential of the club.

“I’ve had some fantastic times at Stourbridge and I hope to have the same here.”

The departing Taylor played more than 100 games for Sporting.

Sporting have also signed defender Shay Palmer from Highgate United.

Smith said: “Shay is another player that should have stepped up before now. He’s a big, strong, pacey defender and I’m looking forward to working with him.”

Palmer said: “This club craves success and, with the players that have been retained and the signings that have been made, the future looks bright."