GAVIN Ward and Phil Bolland yesterday left Chester and signed for League Two neighbours Wrexham.

Goalkeeper Ward, 37, has penned a deal that runs until the summer of 2009, while centre-back Bolland, 31, has joined the Dragons until the end of the season, with the option of staying on for the 2008/09 campaign.

The pair have made only four appearances between them for the Blues this season.

On a busy day at the Deva, goalkeeper Phil Palethorpe returned to Chester following a loan spell with Tamworth and defender Rob Marsh-Evans was allowed to sign for Leigh RMI.

City are not thought to be pursuing their interest in West Brom striker John Hartson.