ONE of the area's best amateur footballers has switched sides – joining Cleethorpes Town from rivals Grimsby Borough.
Lewis Buckthorp has left Borough to join fellow Baris Northern Counties East League Division One side Clee Town. He may go straight into the Clee squad that travels to face Barnsley-area side Worsbrough Bridge Athletic tomorrow.
The midfielder was born and raised in Grimsby, attending Great Coates Primary and Whitgift Secondary School.
He then earned a place in Leeds United's youth set-up. He spent three years at the Elland Road club before being released, for 'not being strong enough'.
He has since played for Yorkshire side Armthorpe Welfare, and later Grimsby Borough.
In addition to that, he has also played for Grimsby & District Sunday League sides – his achievements include a league and cup double with Jubilee Inn.
His good form caught the eye of Blundell Park talent spotters and he earned a trial with Grimsby Town back in 2006.
Cleethorpes Town boss Andy Liddle is delighted with his new addition.
He said: "Lewis has decided to join us from Borough, and that is a major signing for us. It is a big coup as he is a talented local player.
"He likes what he has seen and heard about us and he feels we can give him the chance to progress up the leagues.
"It will give the next game between us and Borough extra spice too. It is not often you get to sign a key player from your local rivals.
"He has played quite a lot this season and is a proper all-round midfielder.
"He has a good shot, can score goals and produces good deliveries.
"I am really pleased with how things are going. We are getting stronger by the month and I am proud to be a part of it."
After a 3-2 Lincolnshire Trophy win over rivals Grimsby Borough in midweek, Liddle is keen to keep the momentum going in the league tomorrow.
"We play Worsbrough Bridge away and they have been doing quite well," he said.
"Their pitch is not the best, but we go there full of confidence and keen to keep our run going.
"Worsborough are an experienced team at this level, but we are looking forward to the test.
"We will go there looking to take three points."
