Ollie Canfer cannot wait to test himself at Ryman level with Brightlingsea Regent
Will Ridgard
Published: 9:00 AM November 1, 2014
Ollie Canfer(left) in action for Hadleigh United last season - Credit: Archant
Following his recent relocation back to the area, Ollie Canfer has returned to the local non-league scene with Ryman North Division side Brightlingsea Regent.
Highly-rated Canfer, who is comfortable in a number of attacking popsitions, sealed a move to Regent earlier this week, having landed a new job back in the region.
Canfer had looked set to sign for the R's in the summer, before, due to work commitments, the move fell through as he moved away from the area to live in Kent.
Now, back in the local game and raring to go, the versatile attack-minded player is relishing the chance and opportunity to shine at a higher level.
"I had to move away to Margate in the summer, but I've wanted to come back for a while and play here, and Regent is a great opportunity for me," said Canfer, who has been playing for Ryman South side Ramsgate.
"I spoke to James (Webster, the Brightlingsea manager) and it's a good challenge for me.
"All the lads seem really nice and the atmosphere at the club is really good.
"I've never really had the opportunity to play at a higher level around here before, but I think I'm capable of it and I'm really looking forward to it."
Canfer has spent the majority of his career in the Thurlow Nunn Premier Division after spells at Woodbridge Town, Needham Market (while a Step 5 side), and Hadleigh United, where the versatile player thinks he played his best football – helping the Brettisders become the 2013/14 Thurlow Nunn Premier Division champions for the first time in their history with a countless number of goals and assists.
"I think last season was the best season I've ever had," explained Canfer, who made his debut for Regent in the Essex Senior Cup triumph on Wednesday.
"I enjoyed playing with, and winning the league with my cousin Josh (Mayhew, who is currently playing for Leiston), although I don't remember it (Canfer was knocked-out following a challenge on the last day of the season when Hadleigh claimed the title)."