DORCHESTER Town go into tomorrow’s home match against Hitchin Town (3pm) boosted by the news that defender Gary Bowles is set to return to action.

Bowles fractured his ankle on his return to the club in mid-February, and along with the news that Toby Down has extended his stay at the club, manager Craig Laird is delighted to have defensive options in his squad.

He said: “Toby has proven himself to be a good player and he’s fitted into our squad really well. It’s good to be able to keep him for another month because otherwise we wouldn’t have many centre-backs if Nathan (Walker) was to get injured.

“Gary (Bowles) is going to be back in the squad as well so that’s good, and is exactly what we need at this time in the season.

“He’s been training for the last couple of weeks and got involved in the more competitive side of training on Tuesday. It’ll be good to have him back.

“All of the players like him because of his experience, and being an older player means he can take some of the pressure off some of the senior lads who have been carrying the burden over recent weeks.”

Laird confirmed that he has a fully fit squad to choose from, including midfielder David Jerrard who is available for selection as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury.