Hitchin Town boss Mark Burke has revealed he was left 'bitterly disappointed' after Callum Stead's shock departure this week.

The Canaries former frontman and fans' firm favourite accepted an offer to join Northern League Premier Division side South Shields on a non-contract deal.

Manager Burke admitted the Canaries had TWELVE different clubs interested in his star striker, following the surprise departure which shocked many seasoned observers.

Speaking to the club website, the respected Burke said: "I was bitterly disappointed that Callum left to join South Shields this week.

"I have been trying to get Callum to sign a contract all season but he continually refused to do so and I had to respect his decision.

"It meant we were vulnerable to approaches from other clubs and it was inevitable we would lose out.

"We had 12 approaches from other clubs all offering better financial packages than we could. He also wanted full time training which we could not offer but which South Shields could.

Hitchin are aiming to get back to winning ways this weekend when they travel to AFC Rushen and Diamonds.

Stead's move capped a bad week for the Canaries after they were knocked out of the FA Cup, following Cheshunt's 3-0 victory at Top Field in the second preliminary round last Saturday.

However, dignified Burke took time to wish his former frontman well in the north east.

"I wish Callum all the best and hope he can make it at a higher level and he would always be welcomed back at Top Field," Burke added.