BROCKENHURST talent Christie Ward has been snapped up by Football League side Wycombe Wanderers.

Wareham-based Ward joined the Badgers as a 16-year-old, impressing at the Wessex Premier League club whilst coming through the ranks at the Pro Direct Academy.

The 18-year-old scored 19 goals in 50 appearances last term, including the FA Vase's goal of the tournament, for his strike against Brimscombe & Thrupp in the second round.

Wycombe became aware of the starlet when Ward captained the Pro Direct Academy's national side in a fixture against Watford's under-23 team.

Brockenhurst manager, Pat McManus, revealed that he had always expected Ward to go on to "bigger and better things".

McManus stated: “We’re incredibly proud of Christie and delighted that he has this opportunity to embark upon his journey as a professional footballer.

“It was evident when he came to the club as a 16-year-old via the Pro Direct Academy that he was destined for bigger and better things.

“His consistent exceptional performances at this level, which often included some spectacular goals, soon highlighted him as one of the brightest young talents in the South.

“We wish him well and know that he’s now in good hands to develop further and realise his massive potential.”

Wycombe will visit Brockenhurst's Meaden Skoda Arena next Friday (July 22) to face Cherries' under-23s side.

Former Cherries striker and fellow New Forest talent, Sam Vokes, could feature for the Chairboys, after the 32-year-old extended his stay with the Buckinghamshire outfit over the summer.