CHRIS HOPE celebrated his 145th consecutive Gillingham appearance last night by signing a new contract that keeps him at Priestfield until the summer of 2006.

The news will delight supporters and bring relief to player-manager Andy Hessenthaler who was anxious to see his top defender sign a long-term deal.

Earlier in the week, chairman Paul Scally had expressed fears the club might not be able to afford Hope following the collapse of ITV Digital.

But after opening negotiations last week, the deal was finalised before last night’s 3-3 draw with Wimbledon at Priestfield.

Mr Scally told the club’s website: “Chris Hope has been a magnificent servant to the club and is very much in the future plans of manager Andy Hessenthaler.”

Youth team product Danny Spiller has also committed his long-term future to the club by signing a new deal that keeps him at Priestfield until the summer of 2005.

Hessenthaler’s next task is to persuade striker Paul Shaw to sign a long-term deal.