SALISBURY have swooped for experienced midfielder Aaron Dawson following his departure from Evo-Stik South Premier outfit Gosport Borough.

The 25-year-old Devonian began his career with Exeter City, signing professional forms in 2010 after graduating from the academy and going on to make 25 first-team appearances.

Dawson's travels then took him to Torquay United and Truro City and he joined Gosport - then of the National League South - last season, playing 38 times and scoring three goals.

"I'm really pleased we have signed him," said Salisbury boss Steve Claridge. "I've been monitoring him for a while and been to watch him a few times.

"He's a good all-round player, a winner and an organiser - what we've been looking for. He's got a great attitude.

"Whenever I've watched him, he's never given less than 100 per cent under difficult circumstances at Gosport. "That's the type of player I want.

"Aaron can also handle the pressure and expectation of playing for a club like ours, which is important."

Dawson played his farewell game for Gosport in Saturday's 2-0 league defeat at Stratford Town.

Sorry as they were to see him go, the hard-up Privett Park club felt it made financial sense to release him.

"He has been, without doubt, our best player and losing him is unfortunate," admitted caretaker boss Danny Thompson.

"But, for what Aaron was on, we can bring in three or four other players.

"He understands the situation the club is in and has been a real credit."