PROLIFIC goal scorer David Gilroy sealed a permanent move to title-chasing Chippenham last Thursday.

After completing a three-month loan deal Gilroy, 22, made the switch from Conference South side Weston-super-Mare for a sum of £1,000, despite manager Frank Gregan's attempts to bring him back to Woodspring Park.

The forward, who lives in Bristol, said: "It is brilliant news, I am really happy here. Frank rang me and said he wanted me to return but I did not want to go back to Weston.

"Chippenham offered me a good deal and I jumped at the chance to sign it. The fans are good to me and the players have been fantastic. Steve White has been a big influence on me and we are working well together."

Boss White is happy a deal for Gilroy was arranged after a successful loan period. He said: "We are very pleased to get him and it is good that we have finally tied him up on a permanent deal."

Gilroy was surprised when Gregan revealed he wanted him back at Weston after the two had a bust up in October. The manager even banned him from the changing rooms.

Gilroy was then left out of the Weston's starting line up before he started his three-month loan deal at Hardenhuish Park. Since then he has scored ten goals for the Bluebirds in just ten games and is a much happier player.

He said: "The main reason I wanted to make the loan deal permanent was because I am happy again. I'm enjoying playing and am always looking forward to the next game.

"I was missing match fitness when I first came to Chippenham but now I feel fit, sharp and am scoring goals. I feel like I can score in every game with the Bluebirds."

The striker has played his part in helping Chippenham get to the top of the Southern League and predicts he will be back in the Conference South next season.

"We are doing everything right at the moment and I hope our great form continues and I will be playing Conference South football again in August."

Gilroy's loan deal expired before Saturday's win at Stamford, and Hardenhuish chiefs were forced to make the deal permanent for Gilroy to be able to feature this season for Chippenham.