Former Bedford Town captain signed in June 2007 after Bedford were relegated from the Conference South. His strength and all-round ability had made him a fixture in the centre of the Bedford defence since signing from Wootton in November 2005.

Strong, fast and left-footed, several Football League clubs were interested in signing the 21-year-old centre back but he decided to join the U's on a one year deal with the option of a further year.

Gavin scored on his debut in the first game of the season, a 2-1 win at York, and in January 2008 the club took up the one-year-option to extend his contract to 2009. After making a dozen first team starts he finished the season on loan to Southern League champions King's Lynn to gain more first team experience.