Gary Lockyer explains why he’s swapped Ashford United for a new challenge at Faversham Town

Striker Gary Lockyer has set the record straight on his decision to leave Ashford United.

Lockyer, who cleaned up at the Nuts & Bolts’ end-of-season awards, has left his hometown club for a new challenge at relegated Faversham.

The Lilywhites were said to be spending heavily in their doomed battle to retain Isthmian South East status and will be big favourites to win Southern Counties East.

But 21-goal top scorer Lockyer has rejected suggestions his move away from Homelands was motivated by money, instead citing family reasons for wanting to play in a more local league.

New boss Kevin Watson wanted him to stay at Ashford, holding talks with the striker after succeeding Tommy Warrilow.

“I had a really good time at Ashford, I just felt it was the right time to move on,” said Lockyer, 30.

“I know a lot of people say I’ve moved for the money but my career has never been about money in the last 14 years and it isn’t the case now.

“I’ve had numerous chances to leave clubs for more money. It’s never been about money.

“Faversham are on their own journey and with Tommy leaving Ashford, he was someone I’d built up a good relationship with.

“I met Kev - he wanted to keep me and said I was the first person he’d spoken to - and I’m sure he’ll have the club up there challenging but I need to think of my family.

“I’ve just had my fourth child and I wasn’t sure I wanted the commitment of travelling to places like Chichester away.

“My daughter plays up at Charlton on a Tuesday, and I work nights as well, so I was taking her to Sparrows Lane, coming back for training and then going back to London for work, where I earn most of my money.

“Towards the end of the season it became tough.

“Playing in the league below, there’s less travelling