BRAD Sixsmith said it was a tough decision but the right decision to leave Prestwich Heys to join Bury AFC.

The former Heys captain is the latest addition to Andy Welsh’s squad as AFC prepare for their forthcoming NWCL Premier League campaign.

The midfielder made more than 100 appearances for Heys but said the opportunity to join last season’s NWCL First Division North champions was too good to turn down.

“It was a tough decision to be fair, I had been at Heys four or five years, enjoyed my time there but thought this was a good opportunity for me,” he told the club website. “They have got a class team, when we played against them last year we all said they play football the right way and it suits my game.

“It was a tough decision but I think it was the right decision.”

Sixsmith has been busy getting to know his new teammates and coaching staff as AFC’s pre-season build-up continues.

Welsh’s side have faced teams further up the football pyramid - including Tuesday night’s 4-2 defeat at FC United - but Sixsmith says playing higher calibre teams will help them prepare for the new season.

“Pre-season has been good, just getting use to how the lads play and how the manager works,” he said. “I think all the pre-season games will be tough. Playing teams a couple of divisions above us, it stands us in good stead for the season so I am looking forward to it.”

Bury’s build-up continues when they make the short trip to Ramsbottom United on Saturday before travelling to Trafford on Tuesday.

Welsh’s side kick off the new season at home to Litherland REMYCA on Saturday, July 30.