As both Gainsborough Trinity and Lincoln United’s 2025/26 campaigns have come to an end, the focus now turns to what players they are able to retain and bring in ahead of next season.
And at 8am this morning, the Holy Blues announced their first signing of the summer as they look to strengthen their side to push for promotion from the Northern Premier League in 2026/27 after narrowly missing out on the play-offs this season.
Trinity landed the services of former Lincoln City and Nottingham Forest academy striker Connor Brown, much to the disappointment of close neighbours Lincoln United.
The 20-year-old banged in 16 goals in 36 league appearances during his time at the Whites, winning the Fans Player of the Season award after helping them retain their status in step four under newly appointed permanent manager Dave Frecklington.
Gainsborough Trinity manager Russ Wilcox is enthusiastic about what the young attacker can bring to his side, as he said: “We are delighted to have signed Connor.
Credit: Ed Mayes Photography
“He will be a great fit for our group. He’s young, hungry and got ambition to keep developing. We have shown that we develop players. Dec and Will being great examples, with both playing in the national league next season.
“I’m really looking forward to working with Connor.”
Unfortunately for the Whites, Brown wasn’t the only player confirmed to exit before the start of next season, with first choice goal-keeper Heath Richardson, Jack Varley, Harvey Cribb, Brad Wells, Owen Vincent and Lewis Cunningham all departing Ashby Avenue.
Loanees Charlie Carlisle and Noah Simmons are also set to return to their parent club Lincoln City.
At the Northolme, ten players have already been retained ahead of next season, among them being key players such as Lewis Butroid, Fraser Preston, Frank Mulhern, Ash Jackson and Aaron Simpson.
Brown was of course included in the list, along with George Hornshaw, Harrison Beeden, Jack Leckie and Jacob McLoughlin.
However, top goalscorer Jonny Margetts and defender Adam Crookes will be leaving the Holy Blues.