LEWIS Clarke has returned to Portland United after a short stay at Bridport.

Striker Clarke scored 12 goals in 28 games for the Bees, but last played for Portland in the 2018/19 campaign.

Manager Franklyn Clarke has moved to bolster his attacking options, reinforcing the impressive progress of young forwards Joel Hewitt and Greg Borthwick.

Commenting on the hitman, who has netted 62 times in 120 games for the Blues, boss Clarke told Echosport: "He's another option and I got him in straight away when I knew he was interested in coming over.

"He's slightly different to what we already have."

The former Dorchester Town captain stressed his satisfaction with his strike force.

"I'm really happy with Joel, the young lad up there, and Greg who's come in and done well," he said.

In a club statement, Franklyn Clarke added: “I’m happy to bring Lewis in as another attacking option - he brings something slightly different to what we already have.

"He was keen to come back to Portland and I’m glad to have him on board”.

Lewis Clarke could make his first appearance of the Blues' season at Bournemouth Poppies on Saturday, December 5.