A HOST of non-league clubs have been put on red alert after goalkeeper Steve Perrin's decision to turn his back on a chance to play full time football.

After six years in the Conference with Forest Green Rovers, Perrin turned down the offer of a new contract after the club decided to go professional this summer.

Perrin is already being touted as a possible replacement for Mark Hervin at Chippenham Town, should Hervin opt to move America in the summer, while other possible interested parties could include Bath City, Paulton Rovers and Melksham Town.

Perrin, 34, said: "It was entirely my decision. They offered me a new contract but I had to turn it down because they have decided to go full time.

"I have a young family and work commitments and I just felt it was not worth me going full time. I will get more money playing football part time and working than I would if I went professional.

"If I was a younger then perhaps my decision would have been different but I have a family to look after now. I have heard a few rumours about clubs being interested in me and so I will wait and see what happens during the summer."

Perrin enjoyed spells with Chippenham, Melksham, Trowbridge and Westbury before moving to Forest Green in 1998/99.

During his time there he has played at Wembley and Villa Park in two FA Trophy finals and has had a trial for the England non-league team. He was given a testimonial year last season.

His final season has ended in relegation for the Gloucestershire club, barring a last minute reprieve, but Perrin is confident the club are making the right decision.

He said: "If they do get a stay of execution and remain in the Conference then they will need to go full time to avoid a repeat.

"While if they do go down they have spent a lot of money on a new ground and will be desperate to get back as quickly as possible."