Gillingham have beaten the January transfer window deadline to complete the signing of striker Simeon Jackson from Rushden & Diamonds for £150,000.

The Canadian Under-20 International has signed a three-and-a-half deal, which will keep him at KRBS Priestfield until 2011.

Gills boss Mark Stimson was naturally thrilled with the signing: "I am absolutley delighted to have got Simeon here. He is a player that has scored goals this season, and for the past few seasons, and I am confident that he will do the business for us. He is a player that will add pace to the side and is a constant threat in front of goal, which is something we are in need of at the moment."

The official Gills website, www.gillinghamfootballclub.com, were the first to catch-up with Jackson and jumped at the chance to ask him about his thoughts on signing for The Gills: "It has been a bit of whirlwind for me because it only really went through over the last couple of days, but I am delighted to have completed the move and put pen-to-paper. It is a great opportunity for me to make the step up to League One and show what I can do so I want to take this chance with both hands."

So what can the Gills fans expect from the new striker? "I will bring some pace and strength to the front-line and I like to get in behind the defence and ultimately score goals. That is what every striker thrives on and I am no different. I love scoring and I can't wait to get out onto the pitch on Saturday and show you all what I can do."  

We are sure that you Gills fans will get totally behind Simeon, and the other players, during our weekend game with Cheltenham Town. To book your tickets, please call 01634 300000.

(Subscribers to the official Gills text service received this news first)