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Hemel stopper goes pro with Hornets
Hemel Hempstead born goalkeeper Jonathan Bond has signed a three-year professional deal with Watford Football Club.
The promising academy keeper is just starting the second year of his scholarship with the Hornets' Academy but the club have moved to ensure his future is committed to Vicarage Road.
Bond was handed a first-team squad number last season and he took his place on the bench during October and November.
The 17-year-old stopper played his part in the U18 side that reached the quarter finals of the FA Youth Cup last season.
He joined the club seven years ago and already has international recognition with Wales, having been included in the country's U21 squad to travel to Malta on August 10.
Watford manager Malky Mackay said: "Jonathan found himself on the bench last season.
"He trained with the first-team and it may have been surprising to him, but he's worked hard and that's paid off for him.
"We felt he was one with a very promising future, therefore we've handed him a professional deal and I'm delighted he's under the care of Alec Chamberlain, who has already brought Ben Foster on leaps and bounds, as well as our own Scott Loach."
Bond will be back up to Loach, along with 23-year-old Rene Gilmartin who the Vicarage Road club snapped up from Walsall at the beginning of July.
They will fight for the number one jersey after Richard Lee left the club for Brentford.
Another new name at the club is former Carlisle defender Tom Aldred, who joined on July 1.
A tribunal may have to take place to settle the fee paid to the Cumbrians for the 19 year old.
Along with Lee; Jay DeMerit, Jon Harley and Will Hoskins have all left the club during summer.
The Hornets' first competitive game is at Aldershot Town on Tuesday week in the League Cup.
They begin their Championship campign at home to Coventry City the following Saturday.
Jonathan Bond with boss Malky Mackay. Picture by Alan Cozzi, Watford FC.
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Weather for Hemel Hempstead
Saturday 26 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: East
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Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
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