Goalkeeper Ashley Bayes believes the atmosphere in the Boro dressing room is the best he has known throughout his 19-year career. The 37-year-old shot-stopper is widely acknowledged as the heart and soul of the banter coming out of The Lamex Stadium and

Goalkeeper Ashley Bayes believes the atmosphere in the Boro dressing room is the best he has known throughout his 19-year career.

The 37-year-old shot-stopper is widely acknowledged as the heart and soul of the banter coming out of The Lamex Stadium and the man himself admits he can't wait to go to training every day.

"I've been involved in some really good dressing rooms but this is the best," Bayes told The Comet. "We've got a great bunch of lads here and it makes you look forward to going to training.

"There's a great spirit here and we'll obviously be looking to continue that next season."

Bayes has become a crowd favourite at The Lamex Stadium despite being forced to play second fiddle to Chris Day for much of the season. The former Crawley man is not your normal substitute, however, and is often seen on the touchline trying to rally the Boro faithful during games.

On the away trip to York City last season, Bayes actually joined the travelling faithful in the stands to act as the chief cheerleader before taking his turn on a drum one Boro fan had brought along.

While Bayes is likely to provide back-up to Day once again next season, he insists he is more than happy to remain part of manager Graham Westley's squad.

"I've always wanted to stay here," he said. I absolutely love it. I want to be part of this team and hopefully we can go on and take that extra step next season.