Craig Thompson left Hythe Town this week to join Ryman League Division 1 South rivals Whitstable Town.

The 28-year-old, former Maidstone, Faversham and Folkestone Invicta striker ended his near four-year stint at Reachfields after the Belmont club’s boss Nicky Southall lodged a seven-day approach for his services.

Thompson, who signed from Invicta in January 2010, goes with the blessing of boss Scott Porter, who said: “Craig and I spoke about things. It’s a good deal for him and I couldn’t guarantee him first team football."

Porter added: “Thommo has been a great asset for the club on and off the field. He has also become a close friend over the years but sometimes people need a new challenge – that’s football.”

Meanwhile, defender Tommy Osborne made his move from Maidstone permanent after being released by the County Town club.

Hythe host Ryman League North side Aveley in the FA Trophy preliminary round on Saturday, with Porter desperate to make progress in the competition after their early exit from the FA Cup.

Porter added: “We want to make up for the FA Cup defeat at Three Bridges and help the club, by bringing in some much-needed prize money.”