Former Notts County player Ryan Ebanks to move from step five Newark and Sherwood United to step four Grantham Town

A club has announced on social media that one of its most popular players will be moving on to seek new challenges.

"Ryan Ebanks has decided to take the opportunity to play at a higher level, and will therefore be dual-signing with step four, Grantham Town," said a club spokesman from Newark and Sherwood United.

"Ryan is keen to continue to play a part in our season but will more than likely play the majority of his games for the Gingerbreads.

"He has been a fantastic player for us and we will continue a positive relationship with him going forward."

The former Notts County player Ebanks appeared for Grantham Town in a pre-season friendly against Newark Town.

He has previously played under Grantham Town's manager Paul Rawden when Rawden was in charge at Newark FC.

Ebanks has been a long-serving member of The Highwaymen since before they became a rebranded club.

Ebanks was awarded last season’s Supporters Player of the season.

"Of course, this isn’t a goodbye as no doubt I’ll be back," said Ebanks.

“We are gutted to lose Ryan but we fully respect his decision to further his career at a higher level,” said The Highwayman’s manager Jonathan D’Laryea.

“He has been a great servant to the club and I wish him all the best.”