SCOTT Tarr has led the tributes to Basingstoke Town's outgoing striker Craig McAllister.

Stevenage beat off competition from a host of other Conference clubs for the signature of 23-year-old McAllister.

The forward, signed by Town boss Ernie Howe from Eastleigh, became a free agent once his two-year deal with the Camrose Blues finished at the end of the season.

He said: "Ernie always told me that the club that impressed me most would be the one I would want to play for.

"Having seen the facilities at Stevenage and everything about it, I'm very happy and excited."

Town captain and first-choice goalkeeper Tarr said: "Macca has been a good servant to the club.

"Without his goals last season we wouldn't have achieved what we did, getting fifth place. And this season he's got 27 goals for us.

"That's no mean feat in our league and, as club captain, I wish him well.

"All of us at the club hope he makes it and will always welcome him back with open arms in the future."

In 112 games for Town over more than two seasons, McAllister scored 65 times, including an impressive 35 goals in the 2002-03 season, when a host of League clubs, like QPR, Luton and Stoke, coveted his signature.

McAllister said: "I would like to thank everyone who has supported me during my time at the club.

"I'm very grateful for it and am really pleased the club have now made it to the Conference South.

"I've enjoyed my time here but I want to progress in my career and play at the highest level I can."

Basingstoke Town Limited vice-chairman Steve Murfitt said: "Macca has been an outstanding player for us and his goals have ultimately helped us a great deal in qualifying for the Conference South. We all wish him every success."