Alfie Pavey has announced he will be leaving Maidstone United this summer.

The Stones striker had a mixed 2021/22 season - but ended it with a National League South winners’ medal.

After finding himself out of favour at the Gallagher Stadium, Pavey went on loan to National League outfit Dover and scored six goals in 18 games for the struggling side before he returned to Maidstone in March.

Even then, though, he only started once more for the Stones as they lost 3-2 at Welling.

But 26-year-old Pavey, who started his career at Maidstone, insists he leaves with nothing but happy memories having rejoined last June.

“To this amazing football club, although the season was tough personally and I didn't get the football expected, I still got to achieve something that rarely happens in football,” Pavey wrote on Twitter.

“Returning to this football club was something I always wanted to do because this is where I started.

“We, as a group, got this football club back to where it belongs. With great ownership, I'm sure the club will become an established National League side.

“What we created for Maidstone as a group of players is something I have never been involved in. The connection from the fans and players has been great to watch and, to be a part of, we have become one big family.

“With my contract expiring, I walk away with a medal around my neck.

“To the owners, Terry Casey and Oliver Ash, and everyone behind the scenes, thank you for everything.

"But lastly, my team-mates - the best changing room I have ever been in - what a ride it has been.

“We achieved the unthinkable to others but not to us, and we made memories to last forever.

“WE DID IT! THANK YOU. AP9.”

Pavey - who scored 300 goals for Maidstone's academy - played for Millwall, Welling, Dartford, Dover, Havant and Barnet after his first spell with the Stones came to an end.