Moors sign experienced defender

Moors have bolstered in the defensive ranks with the signing of experienced Barrow defender Mark Ellis on loan until the end of the season.

The move sees Ellis re-united with Moors boss Neal Ardley, who signed the 33-year-old for Notts County in March last year.

Ellis starred for the Magpies in the second half of the campaign, scoring six goals in 21 appearances as Notts were eventually knocked out of the play-offs at the semi-final stage.

With over 400 senior appearances to his name, the former Bolton Wanderers youngster made his name at Torquay United, helping the Gulls win promotion to the Football League in 2008/09.

After a short stay at Forest Green, the central defender signed for Crewe Alexandra where he was a regular for two seasons before moving on to Shrewsbury Town in the summer of 2014.

A couple of loan moves to Carlisle United paved the way for a permanent move to Brunton Park in 2016 before he enjoyed a second loan stint at Forest Green.

Known for his no-nonsense approach to defending and his attacking threat from set-pieces, Ellis spent time on loan at Leyton Orient before moving to Tranmere in July 2018.

In the summer of 2021, he signed for Barrow and was made club captain ahead of the current campaign, during which he has made 22 appearances to date.

On joining Moors, Ellis said: “I 'm delighted to join and I 'm looking forward to linking up with the team.

“The manager gave me the opportunity to go in at Notts County last season. When I got the phone call asking the question last week to come and get some games, it was something that excited me. ”

Ellis will wear the squad number 22 and is eligible for this evening 's fixture at Torquay United.