FORMER Dorchester Town captain Neil Martin has joined Tiverton Town.

Left-back Martin, who played a remarkable 402 times for the Magpies, scored 13 goals in his time at the Clayson Stadium – three of which came this season.

Martin’s final contribution to Dorchester was significant as his free-kick forced Wimborne’s James Stokoe to turn into his own net, handing the county town side a 1-0 victory.

In a statement on Twitter, Martin admitted he holds the Magpies “very close” to his heart.

He said: “So my time at Dorchester Town has come to an end.

“I’ve enjoyed every minute of the 400 games I’ve played for the club. There (have) been some highs and lows but I’ve always (given) my all to a club that I hold very close to my heart.

“I needed a new challenge in my footballing career and as I’m getting no younger I needed to make the right decision for myself.

“I would like (to) thank all the staff, players and fans that have helped me along my way. UTM.”

While Martin on Saturday was confirmed as a Tiverton player, the defender may have to wait to make his Yellows debut amid the coronavirus pandemic.

New government guidelines are expected to have a knock-on effect for football, with Dorchester’s league currently paused until Sunday, March 22.