Chippenham Town have been dealt an early blow ahead of the new season with the news top-scorer David Pratt has signed for Basingstoke Town.

The 21-year-old, who was named Supporters' Player of the Year at a recent presentation evening, hit 17 league goals for the Bluebirds last season and netted over 20 in all competitions.

He has signed for the Blue Square Conference South side on a one-year contract in favour of an extended stay at Hardenhuish Park in the Southern League.

Basingstoke finished 18th in their league last season and finished two places and six points clear of the relegation spots.

Pratt signed for Chippenham at the start of the 2007/08 season from local rivals Swindon Supermarine and became a favourite with fans and management due to his non-stop work rate and commitment.

He hit the headlines in December 2008 when he became the fastest man to be sent off in an English fixture after receving a red card three seconds into the league game against Bashley.

The departure will be a worry to fans who fear regular first team players may leave the club after it announced a further cut to it's playing budget for the coming season.

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