KIDDERMINSTER Harriers have beaten off competition from several Football League clubs to land defender Mark Creighton from Redditch United.

The 24-year-old defender put pen to paper on a one-year deal at Aggborough yesterday afternoon.

Manager Mark Yates and assistant Neil Howarth have been long-term admirers of Creighton.

"We were close to signing him last season but for one reason or another it fell through," said Howarth.

"There were a couple of other clubs trying to get his signature including Football League clubs so we're chuffed to have him now.

"He was in the Conference North last season and was probably the best centre half playing in that league.

"It will be a step up for him but we're confident he can handle it.

"He's very mobile for a big lad, is excellent in the air and is powerful on the floor.

"Because we're able to offer him full-time training he'll get fitter and better," added Howarth.

Creighton earned rave reviews during his second spell at Redditch last season having originally left the Valley Stadium to make a name for himself at Willenhall Town.

He deputised as club captain during Mark Taylor's injury-enforced absence and was expected to retain the armband next term following Taylor's transfer to Bromsgrove Rovers.

Creighton was heavily linked with Worcester City - but was advised to hold out for a club in a higher division.

Howarth and chairman Barry Norgrove clinched the signing - and with Yates away in Portugal they will continue to conduct Harriers' transfer dealings until Monday.

It has been a busy few days for Howarth. His wife Samantha gave birth to their second child, daughter Poppy, on Tuesday. They have a son Lewis, 4.

Meanwhile, former Harriers keeper Dan Lewis has signed for Conference North side Moor Green after being released by Yates at the end of last season.