TOM Bearwish has become the third striker to join Weymouth this summer.

Portland man Bearwish, 21, joins Brandon Goodship and Brad Ash as forward options.

Bearwish was released by Eastleigh at the end of the season having scored four goals in 40 appearances, mostly from the bench.

In securing Bearwish, manager Brian Stock has taken his tally to 12 signings this summer.

Bearwish was with Eastleigh from the age of 16 and graduated from the Spitfires’ academy to the first team. 

During that time he had loans spells at Dorchester Town in 2017 and Portland United in 2018.

READ MORE: Brad Ash signs for Weymouth

Speaking to uptheterras.co.uk, Bearwish said: “I’m looking forward to getting started and meeting all the lads. 

“This season is a big one for me because I need to prove to myself and everyone around me that I can play at this level. 

“I look forward to putting in the hard work and hopefully the goals and assists will show that. 

“I feel like the gaffer can really help me improve my game and help me take it to the next level with the knowledge that he’s got and the players that I’ve got around me.

“Being a local lad and following the club since I was little means I’ve seen the clubs highs and lows over the past few years. 

“After speaking to the gaffer, and a few people involved at the club, you can clearly see everyone’s target is to keep the club progressing in the right direction and obviously it means a lot to be part of that.”

Dorset Echo: Tom Bearwish has signed for Weymouth Picture: MARK PROBINTom Bearwish has signed for Weymouth Picture: MARK PROBIN

Stock added: “He’s technically a very good player. 

"He can get forward, he can score goals and brings a lot of energy to the team. 

“That’s something we highlighted (as being important) at the end of the season and Tom brings that.

“He’s a great lad, he’s got a lot of potential and I think it’s a very good signing for us. 

“I like the fact that he’s a local lad and I think it’s a really great fit for us and Tom and I’m looking forward to working with him.

“He’s had a really good education over the last few years being at Eastleigh full-time and I think it’s the right time for Tom to nail down a position.

“He’s very versatile and I think it’s now important he nails down what type of player he wants to be.

“After I was made aware of his availability I asked other players and managers for feedback on Tom I didn’t have one bit of negative information about Tom and I think that speaks volumes for him.”