RYAN ASTLES has become the first player to leave Chester since their relegation by signing for Southport.

Astles, who signed for the Blues from Northwich Victoria in January 2016, has signed a two-year deal with Chester's National League North rivals.

The central defender, tweeted: "Just want to thank everyone at @ChesterFC for the last two and half years, had some up and downs but it was always a pleasure to wear the shirt, wish you all the best for the future."

Having completed his free transfer to Southport, Astles told the Sandgrounders' official website: “I spoke with the board. The ambition of the club really drew me in. Seeing all the plans and what the club want to achieve, that was one of the main things.

“Everyone here wants to be pushing for promotion. That’s the main aim. I’ll make sure I give 100 per cent to that, getting the club back to where it wants to be.

"Personally for me, the aim has to be clean sheets, but we all want that promotion.”

New Southport boss Liam Watson is delighted to wrap up the signing of Astles, explaining: “Ryan is someone who I’ve watched an awful lot of times. He’s a big, dominant fella. He’s a lot younger than people believe he is, so he’s been doing really well playing in the National League since 21.

“He’s played a lot of games, and he’s good in both boxes. He’s left footed, so there’s a balance at the back.”