Manager David Batch has pulled off a transfer coup in bringing the two-times Ryman Premier goalkeeper of the year down a league at the end of last week.

But it is not set to be the only surprise switch between the fierce west Suffolk rivals, with record consecutive appearance holder Archer preparing to go the other way.

“Marcus is a quality goalkeeper and we will take every opportunity we can to get better,” said Batch of the 26-year-old who they enquired about after the recent Suffolk Premier Cup clash between the clubs. “We would not want Alex to be not playing and we have arranged a three-month deal with Bury, which is all signed and ready to go for Monday.”

Garnham, who marked his AFC debut with a clean sheet in the 1-0 win at Romford, before a 1-0 home defeat to Brentwood Town Tuesday, said: “It was a strange feeling on Saturday.

“I’ve been used to being at a club for a number of years and coming across to something totally new is difficult.

“I don’t know any of the lads here and am used to celebrating with the (Bury) boys, but this is a good club with a nice ground.”

After seven years, ending as off-field captain, Garnham said he felt he needed ‘a fresh start’, especially given Bury’s well-documented problems arising from finances last season.

“I just got a bit stale and just needed to freshen things up a bit,” he said.

With thanks from Suffolk Free Press