Out-of-contract striker Ross Hannah has left Chester FC and signed for National League rivals Barrow AFC.
The 30-year-old was offered a new deal at the Lookers Vauxhall Stadium but turned that down in favour of a move to Holker Street on a two-year contract.
Hannah bagged 26 goals in an outstanding debut season with the Blues after arriving as a free transfer last summer following his release from Grimsby Town.
The Sheffield-born forward was the subject of interest from elsewhere during the January transfer window but at the time Hannah had no desire to leave the club.
Chester manager Jon McCarthy had hoped to convince the experienced goal-getter to pen a new contract however given Hannah's performances over the 2015-16 season it was expected the club would face stiff competition for his services.
The Chronicle understands there was significant interest in the ex-Bradford City frontman from clubs in the National League and also in League Two.
Last week Hannah said: "I’ve been offered a new contract and it is a case now of going through everything and making the decision that is best for me and my family.
“Macca (McCarthy) has been in touch with me and said that he wants me to stay. I’ve certainly not ruled anything out and haven’t ruled out coming back to Chester."
However, having considered his options Hannah, whose partner is due to give birth to their second child this month, has opted for a move to Barrow.
Hannah did begin talks over a contract extension in January but Chester's slide down the table and the departure of former manager Steve Burr meant those discussions stalled.
He was named named player of the season, away travel player of the season and took the golden boot award as leading scorer at the club's annual awards last month.
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Hannah was one of the club's top earners so his departure leaves McCarthy with room to bring in a replacement and it is understood he hopes to announce several re-signings this week.
