Driver joins Vale

VALE REC have signed a newcomer to the island whose previous clubs include famous non-league outfit Blyth Spartans. Ben Driver has made his mark on the local sports scene already after a handful of impressive early-season performances for St Saviour's Cricket Club. But it is understood that the 22-year-old, who put pen to paper for the green-and-yellows at the KGV on Sunday, is an even more talented footballer.

'Having spoken to him, I think he'll fit in very well down at the Corbet Field,' said Vale manager Ray Blondel.

'Just speaking to him and listening to him, I'm sure our lads will get on well with him.

'And his previous clubs suggest he's a good player. I'm just pleased he's with us and not another club.'

Driver, a Yorkshireman who has also played for Harrogate, is a midfielder. The prospect of two former semi-professionals - Driver and Tristram Morgan - linking up in the centre of the league champions' midfield next season is a mouthwatering prospect for Vale supporters.

Meanwhile, Blondel yesterday confirmed that he could be on the verge of making another summer signing.

'I spoke to a local lad about perhaps coming to us and I'll be having another chat with him soon. I'm not mentioning a name at the moment, but he'd be a good signing.'

Blondel doesn't expect any of his players to seek transfers away from the Corbet Field, but Vale will lose defender Jon Eley, who is due to go travelling in New Zealand shortly.