WESSEX outfit VT FC have pipped at least two Southern League clubs to sign ex-Eastleigh striker Barry Mason.

The pacy 21-year-old hitman has opted to climb aboard with the Boatmen despite interest from Andover and Lymington & New Milton, where he had a spell on loan last season Mason, right, who hails from the St Mary's district of Southampton, is the third frontman to have signed for VT this summer along with Neil Williams from Blackfield and Winchester City's Ben Kneller.

Gifted wideman Paul West, new in from Hamble ASSC, can also play as an out-and-striker.

VT manager Dave Diaper said: "We're quite well stocked in that department now, but when a player of Barry's ability becomes available, you've got to take notice.

"For him to rate us as one of the up and coming clubs and choose us over Andover and Lymington was very pleasing to hear.."

Meanwhile, VT have promoted first-team coach Kev Harnett to the role of director of football, while Neville Virgin, an under-18 manager last season, will become youth development officer.

VT pre-season friendlies: Lyndhurst (away, July 29), Blackfield & Langley (away, August 2) and Shoreham (away, August 5).