FORMER Poole Town star Charlie Austin finally settled his future today by sealing a move to Championship title favourites QPR.

The former bricklayer, who scored 64 goals in 57 games while at Tatnam, left Burnley to join Harry Redknapp’s ranks for an undisclosed fee, reported to be in the region £4million.

Austin’s transfer comes after months of speculation and a collapsed move to Premier League new boys Hull City, which was scuppered by a failed medical at the start of July.

The 24-year-old has signed a three-year deal at Loftus Road following an imperious strike rate of 82 goals in 155 professional games with Burnley and Swindon Town, who snapped up Austin from the Dolphins in 2009.

Commenting on Austin’s latest move, Poole’s vice-chairman Chris Reeves told the Daily Echo: “We have been in touch with Charlie and we are absolutely delighted for him.

“His move to the Premier League might not have come off just yet but if you are going to go anywhere outside the top flight, you cannot do any better than being under the guidance of Harry Redknapp at an ambitious Championship club.

“Perhaps the disappointment of the Hull deal falling through will prove to be a blessing in disguise because they (QPR) could end up getting promoted and pass Hull going the other way.

“It is a very exciting time for him and being a lot closer to home will also be beneficial for Charlie.”

Meanwhile, Reeves politely declined to comment on any prospect of Dolphins profiting from the move and the Daily Echo understands there is a confidentiality agreement in place between Poole and Swindon Town on the matter.

Back in November 2012, Reeves had said he “would expect the club to benefit from any transfer from Burnley”.