ALAN Walker-Harris has stated that Mark Jermyn’s presence as Dorchester Town boss played a huge role in him penning a one-year deal at the Avenue.

The popular goalkeeper said he did not think twice about signing his contract once it was offered to him by the Magpies’ manager.

“There was no hesitation at all,” he admitted. “I didn’t really have to weigh up anything.

“Normally I play a little bit hard to get but I wanted to sign and that was that.

“Me and Mark played a good few games together previously so I know what he’s all about.

“He has told us what he’s trying to do and although the budget’s not massive he still wants to be competitive.

“It’s because of him and the ambition to get the club back to where it should be that I decided to stay on.”

And Walker-Harris echoed the comments of team-mate Lewis Morgan, who believes that the club should be aiming as high as possible next season.

“You’ve only got to look around the changing room to see we’ve got some good players, so I don’t see why we can’t aim for promotion,” added Walker-Harris.

“We showed at the back end of last season that we are certainly more than capable of not just competing but ruffling a few feathers on the way.”

Walker-Harris is also looking forward to again having Shane Murphy as competition for the number one jersey next term.

“It always helps having someone around to keep you on your toes,” he said. “I like the competition, that’s why I play football, I don’t want things too easy.”

Walker-Harris, along with Murphy, Jake Smeeton, Matt Oldring and Lewis Morgan signed 12-month deals earlier this week.