DORCHESTER Town have pulled off a coup by announcing the permanent signing of defender Callum Buckley from Hayes & Yeading United.

Versatile defender Buckley, formerly of Aldershot and Weymouth, has signed until the end of the 2022/23 season.

Making a total of 17 appearances across a number of one-month loan spells from Hayes & Yeading this season, Buckley has impressed in central defence or at left-back.

He had formed a strong partnership with Thiago Caze da Silva in the Magpies' rearguard and, after being recalled by United, Dorchester have moved to end his zig-zag season.

Dorchester boss Glenn Howes told the club's media team: "We’re delighted to welcome Callum back to the Avenue on a permanent basis after a successful loan period.

"Callum has proven to be an extremely popular member of the squad and has been sorely missed since being recalled by Hayes & Yeading, his qualities on the pitch speaks for itself. 

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"It gives us great pleasure in confirming Callum’s signature for this and next season; it's been a great effort from everyone at the club to get this done and it’s also been fantastic to collaborate with the Dorchester Town Fans Association on this, and are very grateful for their contribution to support this transfer.

"We look forward to seeing a lot more of Callum in the black and white."

Buckley will go straight into the Magpies' squad to face Gosport tomorrow (3pm).