Experienced defender becomes sixth Morecambe FC summer signing

Central defender Lewis Baines has become the latest signing for Morecambe FC, in a week where two players departed for opportunities elsewhere.

The 27-year-old joins the Shrimps from Altrincham, where he played more than 140 times in the National League, on a two-year deal.

A left-footed central defender, Baines developed through the academy at Fleetwood Town before gaining senior experience during loan spells with Bamber Bridge, Ashton United, Chorley and Stockport County.

He later joined Chorley on a permanent basis, where he established himself as a key figure and made over 90 appearances for the Magpies.

Baines made the move to Altrincham in 2022 and went on to become a mainstay of the Robins’ defence and captaining the side during his time at Moss Lane.

During the second half of last season, he also gained further National League experience during a loan spell with Solihull Moors.

The experienced defender has also been recognised at international level, earning a call-up to the England C squad in 2022.

Manager Adam Lakeland said: "I'm delighted that Lewis has joined Morecambe FC. He's a player I've always liked, not only for his defensive qualities, where he enjoys competing and genuinely looks frustrated whenever his team concedes a goal, but also for his composure in possession and ability to build the game from the back.

“Being left footed, he will add great balance to our back line, and is yet another leader within the team, having previously captained Altrincham.

“Lewis is at a great age, with his best years still ahead of him in my opinion, so it's another signing of real quality and I look forward to working with him.’’

Speaking after signing for the Shrimps, Baines said: “I know the history and how big the club is, it’s not ideal where we are at the moment, but the club seems to be on the up now.

“They are a big team, well supported. The Gaffer sold me his plans over the next two years, and I jumped at the opportunity.”

Meanwhile, two senior players have opted to continue their careers away from the Mazuma Mobile Stadium.

Last season’s top goalscorer and Player of the Year, Jack Nolan, has completed a move to Hartlepool United in the National League.

Having joined the Shrimps in September 2025, the 25-year-old quickly established himself as a key figure and fan favourite at the Mazuma Mobile Stadium, scoring 20 goals and providing nine assists in all competitions.

He rejected the offer of a new deal to make the move to the North East and stay in the National League, following the Shrimps relegation.

Another player moving on is winger, Gwion Edwards.

The 33-year-old Welshman was also offered a new contract, but has made the move two divisions higher, to return to League Two with Exeter City.

Edwards was at the club for three seasons, joining in January 2024, making 85 appearances and scoring 12 goals.