Paul Bastock will not be between the sticks for St Albans City next season.

The club announced at the weekend that the veteran goalkeeper, who has made more than 300 appearances for the Saints, was released.

Speaking to the club website, joint manager James Gray said: “Bazza was great for us last season and his control of his six yard box was second to none. Graham [Golds, joint manager] and I would both like to extend our thanks to Paul for his commitment and first class attitude, however we feel that moving up a level, the time is right for a change.”

The move is not an unexpected one for Bastock. Speaking after his 300th appearance, Bastock hinted that he would strongly consider retirement if St Albans gained promotion back to the Conference South. And, thanks to him, they beat Chesham United in the play-off final to achieve it.