BOSS Tom Killick hailed Luke Burbidge’s loyalty after the fleet-footed wideman decided to remain at Poole Town.

Confusion had reigned over the future of the 21-year-old attacker when he publicly admitted he was in negotiations with Southern Premier rivals Weymouth, despite Dolphins announcing Burbidge had agreed a contract earlier in the summer.

Terras boss Brendon King made his swoop just weeks after securing the services of Michael Walker from the Tatnam outfit.

And while Killick claimed he could not compete with Weymouth’s wage offer, he was delighted to hold on to Burbidge’s burgeoning talent.

Killick told the Daily Echo: “I’m pleased, not only because he is a really valuable player for us, but because he is someone I believe will improve even further. The fact he has turned down a more lucrative offer from Weymouth is testament to the attachment he feels to the club.

“He has shown loyalty despite receiving an offer that was better for him and I am grateful to Luke for that.”

Meanwhile, fellow Southern Premier club Bashley have completed the signing of ex-Bournemouth Poppies goalkeeper Nic Jones.

Formerly with Poole Town, Jones has impressed New Forest bosses Stewart Kearn and Paul Gazzard.

“We’re immensely pleased,” said Kearn. “I have known Nic a long time and he has played really well during pre-season.”

In another change at Bashley Road yesterday, committee member Mike Cranidge took over as chairman from the outgoing Richard Millbery.