TONY Sullivan has confirmed Ben Harrison is set to leave Witton, ending a four-year stay with the club that started when he was a teenager.

The defender, Albion’s current longest-serving player with more than 225 appearances to his name, has agreed to join league rivals Nantwich Town.

He did not play when the teams met on Boxing Day, only informing the manager he wanted to leave hours before kick off.

“Ben found himself in a position he shouldn’t have been put in,” said Sullivan.

“I found out on the morning of the game that I had to make a change.”

Mark Harris, Witton’s chairman, told the Guardian the Dabbers had served a seven-day notice of approach for the 24-year-old earlier this month.

“We’re disappointed at the timing of the decision,” he said.

“Nantwich aren’t the first club that have tried to sign Ben, and were free to talk to him following our fixture at Ilkeston the Saturday before Christmas.

“Discussions then took place, and he told us on the day of the game he’d made up his mind. He was asked to play for us, but declined.

“We’ll be desperately sad to see him go, because he’s been a super servant for us and is a great guy.

“The door will always be open to him here.”

Harrison, who lives in Northwich, refused an offer of a new contract in the summer.

It means Witton are not entitled to compensation for losing a player that has made 30 starts in all competitions this season.

He will remain registered at Wincham Park until a number of administrative conditions related to the move have been adhered to.

Sullivan added: “I’ve thanked Ben for the effort he’s made for me during my time here.

“He should be held in high regard for what he’s done for Witton, but he’s made his decision and we’ll react positively.”

Albion, who climbed from the relegation zone in the Northern Premier League’s top flight as a reward for a 3-0 victory on Friday, visit Marine on New Year’s Day, kick off 3pm.