DEFENDER Matt Clarke has rejected a new contract from Hereford United and opted to sign a two-year deal with Conference rivals Telford United.

The 28-year-old joined the managerless Shropshire club yesterday after finalising the deal with chairman Andy Shaw.

The popular right-back made over 160 appearances for United in a four-and-a-half year spell at Edgar Street, scoring 10 goals.

Clarke said: "I was offered a new contract by Hereford but it would have involved a substantial drop in my wages, and I could not afford to take it.

"I have been linked with other clubs, but I met the chairman of Telford, heard how ambition he was, and he offered me a much better deal and more security than Hereford - which I would have been daft to refuse.''

He added: "I am aware that there have been rumours of me opening a night club and wanting to go part-time, but they are all ridiculous. Had the deal been right I would have stayed at Hereford. The fans have been brilliant to me at Hereford and I doubt whether I will ever have a better relationship with another set of supporters.

"I am very disappointed to be leaving."

Jamie Pitman, Ben Smith and Steve Guinan have each signed new one-year deals with United, while Rob Purdie, Richard Teesdale and Danny Williams are close to re-signing.

Burton Albion are set to finalise a one-year deal with ex-Hereford captain Ian Wrigh, who has also had talks with Telford, Nuneaton Borough, Worcester City and Hednesford Town

United have lined-up a pre-season friendly against Wolves at Edgar Street on July 14, with a visit from West Bromwich Albion pencilled in for July 21.

United have issued their season ticket and admission prices for next season, with prices remaining the same as last season. There is a 10 per cent discount on all season tickets bought on or before May 31. From the start of next season, gate admission prices will increase by £1 if United are in the top five.

Former Hereford physiotherapist Simon Shakeshaft is organising a match this Sunday, involving Shrewsbury Town Old Boys and Sky One's team Harchester United at Shrewsbury's Gay Meadow ground, kick-off 11am. Proceeds will go towards the FA-backed 'Keep Your Eye On The Ball' campaign.