Popular ex-skipper in Edgeley Park exit

STOCKPORT County defender Mark Lees has left the club and joined National League rivals AFC Telford.

Lees captained Alan Lord’s County side for the duration of last season – having arrived at the club in November 2013, following Lord’s appointment in October.

The former Stalybridge and Ashton United centre-back was a regular in the 2014/15 campaign, and despite County’s 11th-placed finish the 26-year-old proved a popular figure at Edgeley Park.

Although the part-time PE teacher signed a new deal in March under former manager Lord, Lees was one of six players placed on the transfer list upon the arrival of new boss Neil Young.

Speaking in November 2013 shortly after his arrival, Lees described the move to County as a “dream come true.”

“To be honest when I knew I was leaving Stalybridge and heard of Stockport’s interest, it was a no-brainer to come here.

“I didn’t want to listen to any other offers after that I just wanted to come here straight away.”

Lees has already made his debut for his new team, featuring in Telford’s friendly against Welsh side Rhyl on Friday.