PROLIFIC striker Sam Newson has joined Brantham Athletic - and says his new club ticks every box.

The former Stanway Rovers front man has agreed terms with the Thurlow Nunn League club after parting company with Maldon and Tiptree.

He had "three or four" other offers but admitted it was an easy decision to link up with Matt Carmichael and Michael Brothers' Imps.

"There are various reasons why I chose Brantham," said the 28-year-old.

"First and foremost, it's a very ambitious, well-run club.

"They want to progress and achieve great things and I really hope I can be a part of that.

"(Former Needham Market team-mate) Michael and I have been friends for years, which was another factor, and of course it will be nice to play with my brother, Ben, again.

"It's been a few years since we did that, going back to our days at Stanway.

"I'm looking forward to that and he's only ever had good things to say about Brantham.

"I also had to take my work commitments into account and the other factor is the club's location, which is pretty perfect for me.

"I'm just about to move to Stowmarket so it's nice and close and certainly far more convenient than going back and forward to Maldon.

"I had three or four offers and while it's flattering to feel wanted, my mind was already made up."

Newson was a big success during his time at last season's Ryman League division north runners-up Maldon, who he joined in December 2015 after five years at Needham.

He racked up 34 goals for the Jammers, making him one of the club's top-five leading goal-scorers since Maldon and Tiptree United merged in 2010.

Newson admitted it was a wrench to leave Park Drive but does not see his move to Brantham as a backward step, despite dropping from the Ryman League into the Thurlow Nunn League.

"I certainly don't see it that way," he said.

"To me, it's progression and an opportunity to come in and help the club and help their young players.

"It's the right club for me and I can't wait to get started, although of course there's some sadness at leaving Maldon.

"I loved every second of my time there.

"It's a great club run by wonderful people and I couldn't speak more highly of (manager) Kevin Horlock.

"There are some very talented young players at the club and I'm certain they'll go on to play at a higher level."