AMBITIOUS Sydenhams One outfit Christchurch have pulled off a massive coup by swooping for Poole Town striker Richard Gillespie.

The prolific frontman, who is on non-contract terms with the Dolphins, has dual-registered with Priory as he looks to regain his fitness, writes Neil Perrett.

Gillespie has been plagued by injury in recent seasons and is on the comeback trail following a knee problem.

He has not featured for Poole this season and was restricted to 18 appearances, including eight from the bench, in their debut National League South campaign.

Poole boss Tom Killick explained: "Richard is going to Christchurch on a match-to-match basis to get fit."

Despite his injuries, Gillespie has an impressive record for Poole, having netted 38 goals in 84 games for the club since joining from AFC Totton in 2013.

The former Bashley and Eastleigh marksman scored five times in 17 games as Poole clinched the Southern League title in 2015/16.

Gillespie, who could make his debut for Christchurch when they host Sydenhams One rivals Totton & Eling on Saturday, is Bashley’s all-time leading goalscorer, having netted 180 times in 324 games for the New Forest club.

He had also been linked with a move to Southern League strugglers Dorchester Town.