LEE Vaughan has described his decision to leave Kidderminster Harriers as one of the most difficult he’s ever made.

The 27-year-old decided to turn down a new deal at Aggborough and join Mark Yates’ League 2 outfit on a two-year deal yesterday.

It ends a successful four-year spell at Harriers for the likeable right-back, who was out of contract in the summer.

Vaughan joined Kidderminster from Telford in the summer of 2010 and made 178 appearances for the club, becoming one of the Conference Premier’s most reliable players in the process.

He played a key role in the club’s attempts to make the play-offs and was a part of a rock solid back four which helped to propel Harriers to second place in the 2012-13 season, when they were pipped to the title Mansfield Town.

Unfortunately, the Reds then lost to Wrexham in the play-off semi-finals.

“It has been emotional and this was probably the hardest decision I have ever had to make in football,” commented Vaughan.

“I hold Kidderminster Harriers in the highest esteem.

“Ever since I joined the club everybody involved has been really good to me and always made me feel welcome.

“Even when I was sent off against Telford the supporters and club have been there for me.

“I decided half way through last season that I wanted to make the move into the Football League but Gary Whild threw a spanner in the works when he returned as manager.

"He's someone you want to play for, a football man through and through and it was difficult to say goodbye because I know he’s going to do a great job.”

Vaughan was sought by a number of clubs this summer, rumoured to be Shrewsbury and Newport, but was convinced to join the Robins by former Kidderminster manager Yates.

He added: “It wasn’t an easy decision, there were a few clubs who were showing an interest but after talking to Mark Yates he assured me he’s got the desire to be pushing for the play-offs next season.

“I’ve always wanted to play in the Football League but I also wanted to go to a club who are ambitious.

“The plan was always to play in Football League with Harriers and my greatest disappointment was losing in the play-offs.

“We went on a great unbeaten run and to lose the title on the final day of the season left us a bit deflated.

“But there have been so many highs. The FA Cup run and playing at Sunderland was incredible and the fans were fantastic that day.

“When the club had its financial problems and the players did not get paid, it actually brought us all closer together, the staff and board members, and spurred us on.”

Harriers will now gave to find a replacement for one of their most reliable performers but Vaughan believes youngster Tyrone Williams may fight the bill.

The teenager spent last season on loan at Redditch United after graduating from Harriers’ academy.

He said: “I think Tyrone looks a very good player in training. I am not sure what Gary Whild’s plans are but he may want to try him. Gary’s all about giving young players a chance.”