Stratford swoop to bring in former Leamington and Banbury United striker who has played in the National League North
Stratford Town have sent a strong message of intent ahead of the new season with the signing of striker Henry Landers from National League North side Leamington.
The ambitious Bards have landed the experienced forward in a move described by chairman Jed McCrory as a “major coup”.
Landers, who scored 21 goals in 91 appearances for Leamington, opted to leave the club due to the increasing demands of travel from his Oxford home.
His switch to Stratford is a boost to their attacking options and further underlines the club’s growing stature.
McCrory believes the signing is a reflection of the club’s progress on and off the pitch, saying: “This is a major coup for the club, as Henry arrives with an impressive pedigree, having been named player of the season at his former club.
“His arrival not only strengthens our squad but also highlights the growing ambition and appeal of Stratford Town Football Club.”
He continued: “I believe this signing reflects the pulling power of the club – a testament to the hard work of our sponsors, the dedication of our volunteers, and the unwavering support of the fans.
“Together, we’re building something special, and Henry’s addition is another exciting step forward.”
The 25-year-old began his career with Oxford City before impressing at Banbury United, where he became a fans' favourite.
During a three-year stint with the Puritans, he scored 19 goals in 92 appearances, helping the club lift the Southern League Premier Division Central title in 2022 and cement their place in the National League North.
His consistent performances earned him a move to the Brakes in 2023, where he played a key role in their promotion back to the National League North, featuring in the play-off final win over AFC Telford.
Landers has also featured for Maidenhead and North Leigh earlier in his career, and it was his scoring exploits at both clubs that saw him rise through the non-league ranks.
Stratford’s latest recruit arrives with a proven record and plenty of experience - qualities the club hopes will be pivotal in their push for promotion.
The Bards have also confirmed the club’s player of the season, Lewis Ludford-Ison, will remain with the club next season.
Nicknamed Ice, Ludford-Ison won Stratford's players’ and supporters’ player of the year awards last campaign.
He also won the club’s goal of the season prize as the club just missed out on the Southern League Premier Central play-offs last term.
Ludford-Ison said: “I’m happy to stay with a club that has held so much faith in me over the last couple of seasons, along with going back to a changing room full of lads who I now call good friends, not only in football but away from it also."
Chairman Jed McCrory added: “Ice is a hugely popular figure, and has become an integral part of the team, adding goals to his game and playing a key role in our style of play.
"He’s a true leader on the pitch, embodying the team’s fighting spirit with his tough tackling and relentless performances.
"And, of course, we can’t wait to hear those 'Ice, Ice Baby' chants ringing around the ground once again.”
