Josh Hare has left Maidstone United after rejecting a new contract.

Stones boss Jay Saunders had been in talks with the 23-year-old but Hare has decided to move on.

Saunders said: “I am disappointed to see Josh go as he'd done well for us.

"We’d been talking before the season ended about next year and he was very much in my plans.

“It’s that time of year when players are getting offers elsewhere and despite my best efforts and a good offer, he’s decided to move on."

Hare joined United from Eastbourne last summer, making 35 appearances, operating mainly at right-back but also centre-half and holding midfield.

Last month he scored the crucial third goal as the Stones beat Chester to secure National League safety.

He also scored a late winner against Torquay to end Maidstone's 17-game winless run, along with an injury-time equaliser against Aldershot at the start of the season..