Ricketts was a key player for Barton last season as the side pushed for promotion to the Evo-Stik league and was instrumental in his final Barton appearance as he instigated a first victory of the season against Shawlane Aquaforce on Wednesday.

Brad started his career at Hull City and had a spell at Bridlington Town before moving to Barton Town. He came to Reed’s attention thanks to the clubs East Coast Scout, Darren France.

Ricketts will go straight into the squad for tomorrow’s trip to Northwich Victoria with Richard Patterson due to have a fitness test after picking up an injury in the FA Cup tie at Marine.

John Reed hopes this is not the last bit of business he does this week, a second signing is on the horizon and will be announced here first just as soon as it is done.