AFC TOTTON have today completed the signing of Wimborne Town’s Mark Gamble on an 18-month contract - their third capture from their Southern One South & West rivals in the last three months.

Gamble follows in the footsteps of fellow ex-Magpies Ian Oliver and Patrick Wilson, who have helped steady the ship at the Testwood Stadium, contributing to the five-match unbeaten run the Stags are currently on, writes Talia Jones.

Totton faced competition from Winchester City and Petersfield Town to sign Gamble at the start of the month, despite the forward having been out of action since October having displaced two bones in his foot and sustained ankle ligament damage.

The striker came safely through a medical with Totton physio Dave Penny on Saturday and chairman Andy Straker was instrumental in getting the deal over the line.

The prolific striker will be fighting for a regular start in the Totton line-up. He is joining the likes of Nathaniel Sherborne, Mike Gosney, Dylan Knight and Mark Lilley, ensuring the New Forest team will be a handful for any defence in the Southern One South & West.

Delighted manager Steve Hollick said: “Mark is an excellent signing for the club. He’s a proven goal threat at this level (being the top scorer for the Magpies the last two seasons) and means we can look ahead to the rest of the season and the next campaign.

“He gives us various options up front meaning we’re back up to four or five out-and-out strikers, which can only help the squad.

"A lot of the credit needs to go to the club and chairman. Andy’s been very proactive in the deal and has been the driving force to make it happen.”

Gamble could make his debut this Saturday away to Yate Town, but will have to wait until the Bridgwater game on January 23 to make his first home appearance.