NEW Margate signing Jimmy Jackson has been given a ringing endorsment by his manager Robin Trott.

Jackson has become the latest former Gravesend player to join the Ryman League Premier Division outfit, following Justin Skinner, Steve McKimm and Lee Protheroe from Stonebridge Road, while James Pinnock has joined via Welling United.

Trott said: "Jimmy always gives 100 per cent even when the chips are down, and he is an absolute winner. We have offered him a two year deal, and I have no problem with that."

Meanwhile, Trott has defended his decision to transfer list Berti Brayley and release player-coach John Keister.

He said: "I have apparently taken a bit of flak about that. Berti and I came to a mutual agreement about things, because he was travelling from his home at Canvey Island.

"Releasing John was the hardest decision I have had to make. He is a great bloke, and has been a real mate to me since I have been at the club, and I would always have him back in a coaching capacity."