GILLINGHAM'S search for a striker came to an end with the capture of prolific Rushden & Diamonds striker Simeon Jackson with only a few hours of the January transfer window remaining.

Jackson signed a three-and-a-half deal, which will keep him at Priestfield until 2011, and joined for £150,000.

Gills boss Mark Stimson was desperate to sign a striker and said: "I am absolutely delighted to have got Simeon here.

"He is a player that has scored goals this season, and for the past few seasons, and I am confident that he will do the business for us.

"He is a player that will add pace to the side and is a constant threat in front of goal, which is something we are in need of at the moment."

Jackson, who was at Gillingham as a youngster, said it had been a whirlwind move for him.

"It only really went through over the last couple of days, but I am delighted to have completed the move and put pen-to-paper," he said.

"It is a great opportunity for me to make the step up to League 1 and show what I can do so I want to take this chance with both hands."

He added: "I will bring some pace and strength to the front-line and I like to get in behind the defence and ultimately score goals. That is what every striker thrives on and I am no different.

"I love scoring and I can't wait to get out onto the pitch on Saturday and show what I can do."

The Gills also released defender Craig Armstrong, midfielder Steve Lomas and striker David Graham on Thursday night.

All three players had their contracts cancelled by mutual consent.