FORMER Gillingham defender Mark Patterson is to resume playing after signing for Dr Martens League side Dover.

Patterson, 34, who quit the full-time game earlier this month on medical advice following persistent injury problems, joined the Crabble club last night and is set to make his debut at Welling on Saturday.

His decision spelt huge disappointment for Kent Conference club Gravesend. Patterson said: “My decision had nothing to do with money and everything to do with geography.

“The fact is the club is closer to my home near Ashford and that was the deciding factor. I didn't want to be driving up and down motorways which I won't have to do with Dover.”