BARROW AFC defender Rory Feely has extended his stay at Holker Street.

The Irishman has signed a new one-year contract with the club, who also have an option for a further year.

The new deal marks a turn around by the club, who announced that Feely was one of 10 players being released at the end of the 2023/24 campaign.

Speaking about the decision to offer a Feely a new contract, Barrow AFC sporting director Iain Wood told the club’s official website: “While the summer transfer window has developed, it became clear to us that Rory still had something unique to offer the squad.

“So, I'm delighted to see him stay and develop his game further under Stephen [Clemence] and the new look team.”

Feely is equally pleased to have put pen to paper on a new deal.

He told the website: “I’m very excited to be here again, I really enjoyed my last 18 months here so I’m looking forward to another positive year at Holker Street.

“We’ve got a real tight group here so I can’t wait to get back in and push on from last season and go one better.”

Feel joined the Bluebirds in January 2023 from Bohemian FC.

Since arriving at the club, he has made 43 first-team appearances.

Known for his long throw, the player came to the fore in the second of the 2023/24 campaign as injuries and suspensions offered him a chance to shine.

Many felt he took that opportunity as he formed a formidable partnership in the defence which ultimately saw the Bluebirds rank among one of the tightest defences in the division.

He also bagged his first goal in a Barrow shirt back in April when he headed home against Doncaster Rovers.