A FAN-favourite Basingstoke Town FC player has signed a new deal.

Popular defender, Billy Upton, has signed on with the 'Stoke until 2025, a move that will keep him in the blue and yellow stripes for another year.

Upton originally signed for 'Stoke last season, ahead of their treble-winning campaign, from Badshot Lea.

A regular starter for the side, he proved crucial in the campaign that led the team to promotion as champions of the Isthmian League Southern Central division, as well as the North Hampshire Senior Cup and the Hampshire Senior Cup.

In a statement released by the Club, Upton said: "I love it here. 

"I’ve been made to feel right at home. Everyone has been so great with me. There’s not many clubs at this level where you get to walk out in front of 1000 people week in week out. Hearing your name being sung in those stands is something I’ll never take for granted.

"We’ve got a great group of lads and we’re all working hard to ensure we keep moving forward. I’m pleased to help play my part in that."

First team manager, Dan Brownlie, said: "It’s brilliant news. He’s an excellent footballer and a brilliant character. He elevates others both on and and off the pitch. He’s a big character. Sometimes those who hold that level of confidence generate it by pushing down on others. He’s the opposite. He carries people on his shoulders.

"He’s already building a legendary type status at this club; not just because of what he’s helped us achieve, but also in the way he carries himself, the way he treats others and the effort he shows on behalf of those who put faith in him. We love working with Billy and we’re really pleased to have his commitment."