Portland United are 'gutted' after losing captain Josh Williams to Downton. 

Williams has left the club after almost seven years and has been labelled as an 'invaluable' player by joint manager Josh Hickman.

Williams thanked the fans and revealed that he 'simply couldn't turn down' the offer and opportunity he has been given by the Robins, in a statement released by the club.

He stated that joining a project that could take him up the footballing pyramid was a factor in leaving to join the fellow Wessex League side.

HIckman has wished the player all the best and admitted he would be a loss to the team.

READ: Wessex League Premier: Wincanton 0-2 Portland United

He said: "We are gutted Josh is going to Downton, he has been outstanding for the club over the years and he was our captain, so we are going to miss him he was such an invaluable player.

"Off the ball he is one of the best at this level of football with his desire and hit fitness.

"Downton just have resources that we don't have and can offer Josh opportunities that we can't."

Conor Calloway will be the club's new captain and George Stuttle will become vice captain.