Nikki Bull has continued his re-building programme at Margate by signing a former team-mate.

Attacking midfielder Scott Donnelly played against the Gate last season for Havant & Waterlooville but signed for the Blues after being released from his contract at the weekend.

The 28-year-old has been top scorer for the Hampshire club for the past two seasons, and finished his stint at Westleigh Park with 36 goals from 119 appearances.

He and Gate boss Bull played together both at Aldershot and Wycombe, helping the Shots win promotion back to the Football League in 2007/08.

Donnelly began his career at as a youngster at Queens Park Rangers and Gate boss Bull believes his arrival sends out a message that Blues mean business in Vanarama National League South next season.

Bull explained: “He’s someone who has scored more than 40 league goals over the last three seasons.

"He bring goals to the table, creativity, and I doubt whether there is anyone better than him at set pieces either at this level or the one above.

"He’s a really good addition and I’m delighted to have signed him. Hopefully having him here will help us to attract players of similar a calibre.”

Bull was Donnelly's captain both at Aldershot and Wycombe, and says he has known the Hammersmith-born player since he was a 14-year-old.

Donnelly scored 15 times in 71 starts for Aldershot including the equaliser in a 1–1 draw with Exeter City that confirmed their promotion to the Football League.

He also had the distinction of scoring the only goal on the opening day of the following season as the Shots beat Accrington Stanley 1-0.

Donnelly's former clubs also include Swansea and Newport County, who he also helped win promotion from the Conference to the Football League