LOUIS ALMOND has joined York City's Vanarama National League North rivals, Chorley, after turning down a new deal at Bootham Crescent.

Almond is one of three new signings announced by the Lancashire club along with 27-year-old ex-York striker Wes Fletcher and defender Courtney Meppen-Walter.

Chorley manager Matt Jansen told the Magpies' club website: “Louis is a player we’ve always admired.

"He’s played at a good level, knows how to score goals and has the ability to change games.

“A lot of clubs were interested, but as soon as he knew we wanted him he was very keen to come and play for us.”

Blackburn-born forward Almond had agreed a one-year deal with City last summer but was now out of contract.

The much-travelled 26-year-old had shown early promise at Bootham Crescent, not least when creating every goal in the 5-0 triumph at Bradford Park Avenue last August.

But he struggled with injuries and consistency and ultimately made only 14 starts for the Minstermen, plus seven appearances off the bench, scoring twice.

City boss Martin Gray had offered him a new deal, thought to be a short-term contract.