BARROW have bid a fond farewell to Wanderers new boy Joel Dixon.

The keeper has linked up again with Ian Evatt at the University of Bolton Stadium having been a key member of the Bolton boss’ Bluebirds squad that won the National League title.

Former Sunderland youngster Dixon took that form into League Two last season when Evatt moved onto the Whites and has now been brought in to challenge Matt Gilks for the No.1 jersey in League One.

His Holker Street exit ended a six-year stint for the 27-year-old which saw him make 203 appearances. And Barrow chairman Paul Hornby was full of praise for Dixon’s contribution during his time in Cumbria.

“We wish Joel all the very best,” he said.

“He’s genuinely one of the nicest people you could ever wish to meet in the game and his years of service to Barrow is testament to his character.

“He’ll always be remembered as part of the championship-winning team and, specifically, his crucial penalty save at Aldershot which kick started our 2019/20 season.

“This year he’s been solid again, producing two great saves in the game at Forest Green Rovers which safeguarded our status in the EFL.

“Therefore, on behalf of myself and everyone at Barrow, we wish him the best of luck in his step up to League One with Bolton Wanderers.”

Dixon has signed a two-year deal with the Whites and was one of two players to join the club on Friday, former Coventry striker Amadou Bakayoko also coming in take it to seven permanent signings this summer, five new faces and last season’s loanees Declan John and Dapo Afolayan.