Stratford Town and Kettering Town have both announced key signings as they prepare for the upcoming Southern League season.

Stratford Town manager Paul Davis secured the signature of midfielder Cuba Mitchell, a 20-year-old Bengali international, marking his first acquisition of the summer. Mitchell, who has previously played for Bashundhara Kings in Bangladesh and Gloucester City in England, made his senior international debut in November 2025. He appeared as a late substitute for Leicester City’s Hamza Choudhury during a 2–2 draw against Nepal. The midfielder also has a background as a Sunderland trainee. Upon joining Stratford Town, known as the Bards, Mitchell expressed enthusiasm about his new club and hopes to attract support from Bengali football fans.

Meanwhile, Kettering Town has strengthened its squad with the addition of experienced forward Lawson D’Ath. The 33-year-old attacker, who began his career at Reading, has played for several Football League and National League teams, including Northampton Town, Yeovil Town, Cheltenham Town, Dagenham & Redbridge, Luton Town, and MK Dons. Kettering’s manager, Liam McDonald, secured D’Ath’s signature amid competition from other clubs in Step 2 of the non-league pyramid. The club described the signing as a “huge statement,” highlighting D’Ath’s experience, quality, and leadership qualities. He will join the Poppies at Latimer Park ahead of the new season.

In related squad news, Kettering Town confirmed that defender Levi Andoh and forward Wes York have departed the club, while midfielder Lewis Coyle has committed to stay.

Both Stratford Town and Kettering Town aim to leverage their new signings as they look to improve their prospects in the Southern League this season.