Judge plumps for United

United, who lie second-from-bottom of the Ryman Football League Premier Division despite reaching the FA Cup third round, have this week been tracking the 35-year-old defender and it seems as though they’ve got their man.

Player-manager Sean Ray wrote on www.hastingsunitedfc.co.uk: “We are delighted to announce that experienced defender Ben Judge has agreed to sign for United, following his release from Tonbridge Angels.

“Having spoken to Ben a few times this week and after making him a firm offer, he has accepted the challenge of helping us try and climb up the Ryman League table. I am thrilled to be signing someone of Ben’s calibre and experience and he will be brilliant to have around the place.

“Ben has a wealth of experience from successful spells at Crawley Town, AFC Wimbledon and Tonbridge and he will help our young squad with his knowledge and advice. There were a few clubs interested in Ben, so I consider it a coup to have got him here.

“We have a few injuries at present, notably to Scott Manning and Matt Whitehead, and with my own suspension imminent, he comes in at the ideal time for us and will be a leader and presence out on the pitch. I hope you will all give Ben a warm welcome to our club and are as happy as I am with this great signing.”

It’s been a busy week of transfer activity at The Pilot Field because the U’s have brought in Aldershot Town youngsters Rory Murphy and Reece Beccles-Richards on work experience, while striker Adrian Stone has returned to the club from Faversham Town.

United’s scheduled visit from bottom-of-the-table Carshalton Athletic tomorrow (Saturday) has been postponed due to a frozen pitch.