ASHLEY Vickers has put the offer of a new playing contract to one side, preferring to focus his efforts on leading the Magpies to Blue Square South safety.

Dorchester’s player-boss has been handed a new deal by chairman Shaun Hearn but is choosing to delay on putting pen to paper.

With the Magpies’ league status almost secure for another season, Vickers is giving the fight for survival his full attention.

The 37-year-old, whose side welcome Bishop’s Stortford to the Jewson Stadium on Saturday, said: “I have got a playing contract on offer but it’s a difficult situation at the moment as the management side of things has taken over and I haven’t even thought about next season yet.

“Shaun’s made me an offer, which is a bonus-related deal, but it’s the furthest thing from my mind right now.

“I just want to get us to safety first and then assess the situation later.”

Top scorer Matt Groves has penned a one-year extension to his current contract, which expires at the end of the campaign, while James Coutts, Kyle Critchell and Nathan Walker are mulling over new deals.

Vickers added: “We will be putting offers in front of most of the lads and then wait for them to come back to us.

“We have been looking at the figures and trying to keep the basic wage down. Like a Deal’s on the table lot of successful businesses, having bonus-related pay can bring the best out of people.”

Meanwhile, Sam Charles is set to sign dual registration forms with Toolstation Western League Division One outfit Bridport.

Vickers hopes the county town striker will make a similar impact at St Mary’s Field to fellow forward Warren Byerley, who bagged three goals in as many games for the Bees.

He said: “We’re hoping that Sam can get some games at Bridport. He’s a great athlete and if we can get him playing the way we want then he’ll be a great asset.

“Warren did well in his short spell at Bridport and hopefully Sam can do the same.”

* Dorchester Town Supporters Trust are hosting a Curry Evening next month.

The event, which takes place at the Masala Indian Restaurant in Dorchester, is to be held on Thursday, March 11.

The cost of the evening is £15 per person and includes a menu of poppadoms and pickles to start, a main meal, rice or naan bread, a side dish and a glass of wine or a pint of lager.

Tickets, of which there are a limited amount, and menus for pre-order are now available but are selling quickly.

To book your place, or to find out more information, telephone 850099, or alternatively email events@magpiestrust.co.uk or visit magpiestrust.co.uk