FERNDOWN lad Ben Dickenson expressed his excitement at continuing his rapid footballing rise after landing a dream transfer to Brighton.

The former Christchurch star, who only left the Wessex League outfit in May, has been handed the opportunity to make the grade as a professional.

Championship club Albion confirmed the signing of the Dorchester Town forward on Thursday night for an undisclosed fee – after the Magpies had accepted two club “record bids” for the teenager.

The 18-year-old, who joined Dorchester from Christchurch in May last year, was understood to have attracted interest from a host of clubs including Burnley, Crystal Palace and Middlesbrough.

Dickenson is believed to have moved to Albion for a modest initial fee which could eventually rise to six figures, with potential add-ons.

Discussing the past 12 months, he told the Daily Echo: “It has been different.

“It has been unexpected as well because everything has happened so quickly.

“It has been exciting and there have been a lot of ups and downs but my family has been there to support me.”

Born in London, Dickenson moved to Ferndown when he was three and played youth football for Bearwood and Poole Town before he was scouted by Southampton at the age of eight.

He left Saints six years later and took two months out of the game before rejoining Poole Town under-16s.

Dickenson then moved to Christchurch and played for the under-18s and reserves before starring in the first team.

Discussing the signing, Brighton’s head of football operations David Burke told the club’s official website: “He is the type of player we want for the development squad. He has come via the non-league route, but as a late developer, he has grown up very quickly during his time with Dorchester.”

Seagulls manager Gus Poyet added: “Ben’s record at Dorchester is impressive and he had a lot of clubs interested in signing him – but I am delighted he has chosen to join Brighton & Hove Albion.

“He is one for the development squad and now his challenge is to prove himself at that level, and aim to become part of the first-team squad.”

Dickenson follows in the footsteps of Jody Craddock and Matt Tubbs – both professional footballers who also attended Ferndown Upper School.

The striker, who has got A-levels in media, science and PE, wished to thank mum Kerrie, step dad Andy and dad Malcolm, as well as his girlfriend Danielle, for their support.