Maidstone have completed the signing of Simon Walton from BIllericay on a deal to the end of the season.

Boss Harry Wheeler said this week he was hoping to tie up a move for the 31-year-old before tomorrow's game at AFC Fylde.

And he's got the job done with Walton now a permanent member of the squad after a successful one-month loan in the Stones back three.

Wheeler told the club website: "I am very pleased to get this deal done.

"Simon will put his heart and soul into every game for the club and will also bring up the standards of other players in the squad.

"He's a big part of how we want to set up here. His leadership and experience of being in a team who reached the play-offs last year (Sutton) have been a real asset to us on and off the pitch.

"It's an important deal to get over the line."

Walton, whose loan deal was due to expire after the Fylde game, said: "I'm chuffed to have made the move to Maidstone permanent.

"I have really enjoyed my time here so far and it was a no-brainer to join permanently.

"I feel right at home already and am looking forward to the rest of the season with the boys now."

Meanwhile, Maidstone have named top scorer Blair Turgott as their new captain following Stuart Lewis' move to Dover.

Wheeler said: "Blair is a confident lad and we are sure that this new responsibility will only serve to further enhance his performances and his influence within the squad."

Turgott, who has nine goals this season, said: "I feel very privileged and I am delighted to accept the the role.

"I was a little bit surprised when Harry called me in to ask me to take the armband but I am looking forward to taking on this new responsibility."