ALTY have made their seventh signing of the January transfer window after capturing full back Richard Battersby from bitter rivals Northwich.

The Vics fans' favourite fell victim to manager Dino Maamria's overhaul at the Victoria Stadium, paving the way for him to cross the divide.

Battersby will go straight into the squad for tomorrow's Blue Square Premier game against York at Moss Lane.

How he will fit into the team remains to be seen, with Chris Lane a consistently solid performer at right back this season, but the 28-year-old can also play in midfield and is another impressive addition to Alty's improving squad.

It became clear Battersby was on his way out of Vics after he posted a farewell message on a Northwich supporters' internet message board.

"After recent discussions with Dino, it's clear that it's in my best intrest to leave the club," he said.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the fans for their support, players and managers come and go but the fans will always remain.

"I shall look forward to returning to the VS as an opposing player."

Battersby was a key player in the Northwich side which romped to the Conference North title in 2006 and was also a regular starter as the club secured a midtable finish in the Conference last season.

He made more than 100 appearances for Vics after joining from Radcliffe Borough in 2005.