Prolific non-league striker John Sands is set to switch Suffolk allegiances by signing for Leiston from rivals Bury Town.

Pending paperwork clearance, the former Ryman Premier Golden Boot winner could make his Leiston debut tonight as they host Margate at Victory Road (kick-off 7.45pm).

A proven goalscorer at Ryman Premier level, Sands will link up with former Bury boss Richard Wilkins at his new club, looking to fire Leiston into the play-offs come the end of the season.

“I’m really happy to be joining an exciting club like Leiston,” said Sands, who, alongside his dual-registration with Vanarama Conference South side Chelmsford City, will sign a deal at Leiston until the end of next season.

“I had a good few seasons under Wilks (Richard Wilkins) before, winning the Golden Boot, and it will be good to link up with him again.

“Hopefully he can get the best out of me, and it would be great to help get Leiston into the play-offs.”

Following two successful years with Bury between 2011 and 2013, Sands re-joined the bottom-of-the-table west Suffolk club in December, from Canvey Island.

“I wish Bury Town all the best,” continued Sands, who will undergo a double hernia operation in the summer.

“I will always be thankful to the club, but I wasn’t really enjoying it (since returning).

“My heart wasn’t really in it, and I needed a fresh challenge.

“It’ll be nice to play with a team further up the table, and hopefully I can get the service to prove myself.”

Leiston will move into the fifth and final play-off position this evening with three points over third-placed Margate.