Worcester City have pulled off a transfer coup by signing striker Stewart Hadley on a permanent basis.

Hadley, who has spent the last two months on loan at St George's Lane, has agreed a deal until the end of the 2003-04 season after being released from his contract at Kidderminster Harriers.

Manager John Barton was delighted with his latest capture, saying: "It is one we thought was beyond us, to be honest.

"We thought it was going to be a one-month loan to help us through. But having seen what he has done for us, he is the type of player we would like to bring to the club.

"Stewart hasn't had a lot of football this season but has thoroughly enjoyed his time with us. It has given him a lift.

"I am sure Stewart has been aware there may have been interest from Conference clubs, so it is a feather in our caps to have signed him.

"To come out of a full-time contract and career to come to us is once again a back-handed compliment to Worcester City."

The 28-year-old former Derby and Mansfield player was in his third year at Harriers, but has not been a regular in their side this season. His contract at Aggborough was due to expire in the summer.

Hadley has scored three times in nine games since joining City, while his general play has inspired a transformation in the club's fortunes and helped them climb the Dr Martens League Premier Division table.

Further good news for City is that midfielder Darren Middleton is due to make his comeback for the reserves in their Worcestershire Senior Urn second round tie at home to Pegasus Juniors tonight (7.45).

Middleton has been sidelined since November by a knee injury, but is expected to figure for about 30 minutes to speed his recovery.

Barton added: "He has done a lot of running, but now we feel it is time to approach the next mental hurdle of getting him on the pitch.

"I can't imagine there was anybody in the league playing better than Darren and Mark Owen when they were struck down by injury."

Long-serving Ian Cottrill also continues his comeback, while midfielder Jon Holloway plays after completing a three-match suspension. Leon Jackson, Dwaine McFarlane and Paul Wyatt should also figure.