Grant bids farewell to Blues after eight enjoyable years

After eight enjoyable seasons at Marlow FC, Simon Grant (right) has decided to call time on his spell at the club and test his mettle with Bobby Wilkinson at Bracknell Town.

On Monday evening, it was confirmed via the Blues’ Twitter, and a heartwarming statement from manager Mark Bartley, that the goalkeeper will be joining the recently crowned Isthmian League South Central Division champions.

He had been a subject of interest to the Robins last season but was announced to have rejected the move, and a better financial package, to stay at

Oak Tree Road for another year.

Speaking to the Advertiser this week, Grant said: “The time has come and all good things must come to an end as they say. My reason for moving is literally to play at a level higher and under a good manager in Bobby Wilkinson. He’s brought in some strong players and everyone speaks so highly of him aswell.

“He wants to try and win the league next season and that’s a challenge I’m really looking forward to.

“I really wanted to go up with Mark as I’ve been with him for quite a long time and he’s a good guy. As he said in his message on Twitter, some things transcend football and he’s become one of my good friends despite being older than me.

“Whenever I had any problems with anything, I would always go to him. He’s always given me solid advice and helped me where he can.

“I wanted to gain promotion with him and get that on both of our CV’s but it hasn’t worked out like that sadly, not for the want of trying.”

Grant will be with familiar company at Larges Lane in the shape of striker James Clark, who was prised away from the Blues at the end of last season. The 30-year-old is also friendly with the Robins’ midfielder Scott Rees.

“Clarky is there so he’s a familiar face and I know Scotty from Reading. But, to be honest, most of the new lads have already messaged me on Twitter and welcomed me aboard,” he said.

“It’s sad my time at Marlow has come to an end but I feel like it’s the right time to move on. I’m no spring chicken but I’m just trying to make the most of the opportunities out there I guess you could say.”