By Alex Hoad

Maidstone received a timely boost after skipper Peter Hawkins opted to snub the advances of Ryman League Premier Division champions-in-waiting Dartford to stay and help the Stones’ relegation battle.

Hawkins (pictured) said: "I’m quite happy at Maidstone. With the players leaving it has been difficult but I spoke to Dartford on Wednesday and decided to stay at Maidstone.

"There were a number of reasons but the main one is that I play every game here and I wasn’t sure if I would be doing that at Dartford. At my age (31), I just want to play.

"I want to stay here and help the club survive in this division."