FORMER Magpies’ skipper Jake Smeeton is ready to embark on a new chapter of his career at Poole Town but admitted Dorchester “will always remain close to my heart”.

The 28-year-old ended his lengthy tenure at the Avenue to join the Dolphins earlier this week.

He walked through a guard of honour, given by the Dorchester players, following his final game for the club against Weymouth on Boxing Day.

Smeeton insists he is looking forward to returning to National South level with Poole having missed featuring at that level, but will always look back fondly on his time with the Magpies.

“It’s emotional for me because I had done nine-and-a half-years there. It was quite sad to leave but it was a nice occasion to finish on,” he told Echosport

“I always wanted to feature in that game (the derby) before I moved on.

“I had my family there watching as well so it was quite a special day. There was talk of me going sooner but I made it clear that I wanted to be there for that game, because Dorchester has been a big part of my career and will always remain close to my heart.

“There has been some financial difficulty (at Dorchester) and I’d like to hope that my departure as well as Jem (Mark Jermyn) and Critts (Nick Crittenden) will allow the rest of the lads to stay together for the rest of the season.”

Smeeton, who celebrated his 300th game for the club in October, having made his Magpies’ debut in 2007, added: “It was a highlight of my career to captain that club.

“From the time I had been there, to work my way up and become the captain and lead some of the players we had has been a great honour for me. I enjoyed every minute of it.

“I will miss the togetherness of the dressing room and the club itself. They are a tight-knit club and there are very nice people that are behind the scenes.

“I will still be in touch with many of the players there for sure.”