Salisbury City manager Tommy Widdrington said he is ‘absolutely delighted’ that central defender Chris Giles has committed his immediate future to the club by agreeing a new contract.

The 28-year-old former Yeovil Town player joined Whites in February this year from Crawley Town and immediately became a firm favourite with supporters.

Widdrington said retaining the player’s services had been high on his agenda this summer and was a key signing for the club as it prepares to kick off the new campaign in the Premier Division of the Zamaretto Southern League after being demoted from the Blue Square Premier.

The City boss said: “I'm delighted that Chris has decided to stay with us.

“I know he had many options at various higher levels and feel his decision should act as a comfort to anyone who felt the club had lost any of the ambition or drive we've spoken about since the decision was ratified to kick us out of the Conference.”

Widdrington, who recently confirmed that fellow first team players Bradley Gray and Ben Adelsbury had also agreed new deals, added: “I hope to have more good news very soon!”

Giles, born in Bridgend, made his Salisbury debut in last season’s FA Trophy tie at Cambridge United.

He made 17 appearances in the final third of the season, scoring one goal.

The Whites begin pre-season training on Thursday, July 1 ahead of their first pre-season friendly away at Alton Town on Tuesday, July 13.