Former Valiant Chris Birchall joins Kidsgrove Athletic

Former Port Vale winger Chris Birchall has joined non-league side Kidsgrove Athletic.

Grove manager Ryan Austin told the Sentinel: “It’s a real big signing for Kidsgrove Athletic and I am delighted Chris has agreed to join us. I am absolutely over the moon.”

Birchall joins Vale striker Dan Turner, who is on loan at the club plus a host of former Valiants including Anthony Malbon, David Artell, Tom Morris and Ross Davidson.

Long-serving Birchall had two spells with Vale and turned down the offer of a new contract in the summer.