Stamford AFC have re-signed Jon Challinor and Dec O'Hare

Stamford stalwart Jon Challinor has agreed terms to spend a ninth successive season with the Daniels.

The popular former Exeter City, Aldershot Town and York City player has become a firm favourite at the Zeeco Stadium since joining from the Minstermen at the start of the 2013/14 campaign.

The 40-year-old actually first joined the Daniels at the start of 2000 after coming through the academy ranks at Rushden & Diamonds before going on to enjoy a distinguished playing career and Stamford manager Graham Drury was thrilled to secure the services of the utility player for another campaign.

Drury said: "I am so chuffed to have Chally back for another season.

"I was worried that he may call time on his playing days after just becoming a dad for the first time.

"But, after speaking with him, he's really missed his football and being around the lads and the club.

"Chally can play anywhere, but I feel his best position is when playing in the number 10 role because he is always good for a goal.

"I love his work-rate on the pitch and at training which rubs off on the younger players. He's just a great lad to be around.

"Chally is so important to us and I know I can always trust him on and off the pitch so here's to another five seasons with us."

Promising youngster Dec O'Hare has also committed to return with boss Drury tipping the former Lincoln City starlet to shine at the Zeeco Stadium this season.

He said: "Dec is returning with a point to prove.

"He has a great eye for goal and is so clever with his runs in behind the team's defences. Dec's been unlucky with a back problem over the last two seasons but is all clear and ready to push on again.

"He is highly talented and will show just how good he is. I know given a full-fit season he will prove to be a big player for us.

"Dec is still young and hungry for the game and will want to be among the goals that's for sure."