SHORTWOOD United striker Lewis Sommers insists the friendly environment at the club was the main factor in him turning down a lucrative offer to join Yate Town.

The 6ft 6ins hit-man was being courted by Shortwood’s Southern League rivals, but the 30-year-old Newport –based player feels he can achieve something with the Nailsworth club.

He said: “ It was a hard decision to make as Yate had made a very good offer,” said the giant Welshman.

“ The factors for staying are how the boys and club have welcomed me. I am enjoying my football and feel settled and I think we have a good squad, who can do something this year.”

Shortwood joint-manager Alex Skyes is delighted to retain his six-goal striker, who joined the Meadowbank club from Mangotsfield in the summer.

Sykes said: “His decision goes beyond money and is relative to what we want to achieve. Lewis is well liked and is a nice lad, who has done well and sets his standards on the pitch.”