Promising centre-back Ryan Dobson has left Chester to join Runcorn Town.

The talented teenager captained Chester's youth team to five trophies last season, including the North West Youth Alliance Premier Division title and the National League Alliance Under 19 Cup, defeating FC Halifax Town 3-0 in the final at Walsall's Bescot Stadium.

However, Dobson was not offered a first professional contract with Chester and has opted to join Town, who play in the North West Counties Premier Division.

Runcorn manager Chris Herbert, who was linked with the Chester vacancy following Marcus Bignot's dismissal in April, said: "Ryan has huge potential and a big future in the game. Although still young, Ryan plays beyond his years. He is quick, strong in the air and can definitely play football.

"I am made up to get him to Runcorn Town as there was a lot of interest in him and its great that Ryan sees us as the place to progress his career.

"Calum McIntyre (Chester Academy head coach) who couldn't speak highly enough of him."