A DUNBAR United legend has called time on an illustrious career at New Countess Park.

Chris Grant, who made more than 250 appearances for the Seasiders, chose to retire after helping the club to win the South Division title last season.

The midfielder now wants to spend more time with his family and focus on his new job.

Seasiders boss Geoff Jones said: “I’m disappointed and the players will be too – he will be hard to replace as there aren’t many out and out wingers going about any more.

“However, I respect the definiteness of his decision and, as ever, football goes on.

“On a personal level I’m gutted and not having him about the place will be very strange. He always conducts himself with the utmost professionalism and integrity.

“He sets an example and a standard that other players follow and that has carried us through games in difficult moments.

“Also his attitude to training is infectious and that is just as important. I won’t forget that he stayed at the club in my hour of need when I returned as manager and supported me without question during a hard first few years when the grass wasn’t as green as it is now.”

Jones also revealed that he had hoped the incentive of playing in the East Premier League might convince Grant to stave off retirement, but admitted: “I think I always knew he would come to this decision.”

In total, Grant made 279 Dunbar appearances – leaving him in 11th place in the club’s all-time list – and scored 84 goals, which is the ninth-best total in the club’s history.

And Jones added: “Everyone at the club wishes Chris well for the future.

“He retires on top and should be looked upon as a club legend, and will always be a welcome visitor while I’m here.”