JASON Matthews has already taken steps to build his squad for next season, with star man Chris Shephard signing a new one-year deal with the Terras.

The former Exeter City playmaker agreed to stay with Weymouth after penning a contract following Saturday’s 4-2 defeat to Biggleswade Town.

“I am absolutely delighted," an ecstatic Terras’ boss Matthews told Echosport.

"I think he has been our star performer on the whole and nobody can deny that. I wouldn’t want him to go anywhere else.

“He likes the style of football we play, he is good to have around, and I am delighted to have him signed on a one-year deal.

“I have held positive talks with several of the other lads and will be speaking to them in the next week or so.”

Chairman Chris Pugsley added: “Saturday’s signing of Shep after the game was a statement from me, Jase and him that we intend to do better next year. More signings will follow shortly.

“We will come back stronger, better and more prepared.”

Speaking about Saturday’s loss to the Waders, Matthews believed the display exemplified the latter part of the Terras’ campaign.

He added: “The last half an hour would be the story of the second half of the season.

"We threw everything at it and it didn’t quite come off for us.

“If we had taken our chances then Biggleswade probably wouldn’t have kept coming at us.

“We had to win and we gave it our best shot, and I’m proud of the players.

"Overall I think it’s been a great season and we have made great strides.

“There will be a little bit of tweaking over the summer.”