LYNCHPIN Ben Brookes has turned down a new deal at Chelmsford City to go full-time with promotion hopefuls Maidstone United.
The 23-year-old, who can play in defence or midfield, arrives at the Gallagher after 18 months with the Clarets.
Brookes played 50 games as the Clarets finished second in the division last season, only to lose out to eventual promotion-winners Braintree Town in the play-off semi-finals.
Chelmsford, meanwhile, have snapped up highly-rated goalkeeper Ted Collins.
The 21-year-old has played for Colchester United’s first team and has also picked up experi...