NEW boss Mark Yates leads Kidderminster Harriers into battle for the first time since returning having lost one of his on-field generals.

Full-back Lee Vaughan today left Aggborough to sign a contract until the end of next season at National League title chasers Solihull Moors – the club Yates guided to survival against the odds last season.

“It’s a great move for Lee,” said Yates.

“He’s been offered an extended contract there which we weren’t in a position to do, so it makes sense for him and his family.

“He’s been a great servant to the club and we wish him well at Solihull.”

Vaughan is no stranger to Solihull’s management team of ex-England international goalkeeper Tim Flowers and Gary Whild – both former Harriers gaffers themselves.

“He gives us a different type of option at right back,” said Flowers.

“I’ve known Lee for quite a long time and Gary Whild’s probably known him even longer than I have.

“He’s another experienced player who’s been promoted out of this division, he’s a winner and he’s got an edge to him – in a good way.

“We’re delighted to have him around and on board for the next 18 months.”

National North play-off rivals Chester provide the opposition as Yates makes his Aggborough comeback on Saturday (3pm).

He had been due to oversee a trip to Ashton United last weekend but that clash fell victim to the weather, affording him extra time to work with his squad.

"It gave us chance to work with the group for another week so I was delighted the game didn't go ahead," said Yates.

"The lads have shown the right attitude and ability, I'm really pleased with them. We've worked them really hard but I've also tried to get into their heads a little as well.

"It has been about simplifying things and giving them a clear way of playing. They have showed real signs of what we are after.

"Hopefully we can now repeat our showing on the training pitch when we come up against Chester.

"Their form since Christmas probably mirrors ours a little and they are a team that are in and around the play-off places as well.

"We'll concentrate on ourselves because if we can perform well and work hard then we know we have the ability to go with that."