FORMER Avenue defender Billy Priestley has joined Northern Premier League Division One North West side Clitheroe.

Last month, the 30-year-old departed Horsfall after his contract at the club came to an end.

Priestley was a regular in the 2019/20 campaign, making 24 appearances in all competitions and netting on two occasions.

It was the experienced centre half's second spell at Bradford after featuring in the green and white for two years previously from 2014, eventually leaving for Salford City.

Clitheroe were making a charge for promotion before the FA chose to void their season due to the pandemic.

Priestley told Clitheroe's website: “I can’t wait to start this new chapter in my career, playing for a great friend (manager David Lynch) I have previously played alongside.

“He has always been very professional and a dedicated player with a massive heart and desire to win, which he will take into management.

“Clitheroe has always been a good club and now it’s on its way up, I hope everyone will jump on the journey with us.”