Whitchurch Alport goalkeeper Dave Parton has left the club to join league rivals Congleton Town.

Fan favourite Parton joined Alport in July 2018 following the club's promotion to the Premier Division and in his time won numerous trophies and awards.

Dave said it was a tough decision to leave the club, but thanked the supporters and the staff for their kindness during his time.

“I would just like to say a big thank you to everyone associated with Whitchurch," said Dave.

"It has been a very difficult decision to end my time at the club who I will always hold in high regard and who have given me some of my best memories in football in the two years I’ve played.

"I would firstly like to thank Luke for bringing me too the club. The way the club has run is in no small part because of the hours he puts in himself, Tommy and the rest of the volunteers put in and to be able to be a very small part of the progression of the club is an honour for me.

"I would also like to thank the management and all the players for all their help and kind words they have given me since I made the decision to leave.

"Special thanks to the players for putting up with me, nothing worse than a moaning goalkeeper!

"And finally I would like to thank the fantastic supporters of Whitchurch Alport. From day one you have made me and my Dad feel at home and no matter what kind of performance I’ve put in you have always been very supportive.

"I'll miss you and I’ll try and get down to see you all when I can. Once again, big thanks to everyone and I will hopefully see you in the future.”

Chairman and ex-manager Luke Goddard said he was disappointed to lose Parton, but wished him well for the future.

“It’s disappointing to lose someone of Dave's ability, it was a big signing and he’s played an important part in ensuring this club made the progress at Step 5," said Luke.

"He’s also a person I have got on with and a family I have big respect for away from football.

"Sadly it’s just how things move on and the offer put together by Congleton is something that 'Parts' would’ve been daft to not take up.

"So I genuinely wish him all the best and in the future our paths may cross again. Thanks from us all at WAFC”

The club say they will now move swiftly to find a replacement and make an announcement when appropriate.