Chasetown FC’s long-serving full-back Mark Branch has admitted it’s “time for a change” after confirming his departure from The Scholars Ground.
He is likely to link-up with former reserve team manager Andy Penny who has become the assistant at Hinckley United.
Branch – who made 339 appearances during his seven season stay at Chasetown – played eight games for the Knitters at the end of last term.
And now the opportunity to make the switch permanent was an ideal one for him.
“I want to play at the highest level I can,” he said. “It’s time for a change.
“I had a good spell at Hinckley at the end of last year in the Conference North. It’s a nice stadium and a good club.”
Branch ensured his folk-hero status among Chasetown fans after scoring an historic goal during their FA Cup game at Port Vale.
It was a strike that won The Scholars a replay, which they evenutally won thanks to a late Danny Smith header.
“Seven seasons and 339 games is a long time,” Branch said. “I have fond memories.
“The best has to be my goal at Port Vale in the FA Cup Second Round, closely followed by promotion at Chasetown against Glapwell.
“My time hasn’t been the same at Chase though since my brother’s injury in September 2011, followed shortly by Charlie Blakemore’s resignation.
“I may be back on day playing for my local side and the door has been left open.
“But the challenge of playing at a level I think I should be playing at is too good to turn down.”
Branch’s switch to Hinckley follows that of reserve team striker Daniel Dubidat.