DEFENDER Lee Baker, who turned down a new deal at Harriers last week, has joined Newport County.

Baker had looked set to re-sign for the Aggborough outfit a week ago before Newport offered him a two-year contract.

This is a setback for Harriers boss Steve Burr, who had been keen to keep one of his most consistent performers.

He will now have to find a replacement for the 21-year-old, who joined Harriers in August 2008.

Baker had been offered a one-year deal with the option to extend, but decided a move to the Blue Square South champions because of the extra security of a longer contract.

Newport manager Dean Holdsworth said: “Lee is a player with all the characteristics I look for in a signing.

“He’s an excellent player and one I’ve had a really good look at because I went to Kidderminster’s last five league games last season.

“He’ll fit in brilliantly here, we’ve impressed him and that’s key for me.

"He’s been much in demand this summer and it’s a great signing for us, one that shows we can compete with some of the sides with far bigger budgets than us.”

Harriers will be able to demand compensation for Baker because of the Bosman Ruling.