STRIKER Anthony Elding admits he is over the moon to have extended his stay at Grimsby Town beyond the summer.

As reported on www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk yesterday, the forward who turns 30 in April, has signed a new contract that could see him at the club until 2014.

His current deal was due to expire this summer but his 30 league appearances have triggered a clause resulting in a new contract and that year, plus a 12-month option, will begin at the end of this season.

There had been speculation about his future during the transfer window with several league clubs interested after his 11 goals in 37 Town appearances.

But Elding, who is set to feature should Town's FA Trophy third round clash at Bath City go ahead tonight, says his priority was always to stay with the Mariners.

It is understood he has taken a pay cut to sign a new deal.

Speaking exclusively to the Grimsby Telegraph, Elding said: "We have been in talks after a bit of interest in me last month and now it's sorted.

"Nothing was official in the interest but I was aware through my agent it was there.

"But I wanted to tie myself to Grimsby.

"It's not too far away from home and the way things are going on and off the pitch, I wanted to get security under my belt and commit myself to this club.

"My priority was always to extend my stay at Grimsby Town. I spoke to the gaffers about extending my contract because I did have a clause in there that triggered a new deal.

"I wanted to get it sorted so that I could focus on the pitch and know where I am going to be next year.

"I can now relax in the summer knowing where I am going to be, so it's a fantastic news.

"Fortunately, for me, it's all been done and I'm over the moon to sign a new deal.

"The contract I am on finishes this summer and this new one kicks in then.

"Then, there's a year option so if you like it's a two-year contract because I am going to work so hard for the club to try and get that third year.

"Hopefully, I am here until 2014 and hopefully we will be back in the Football League by then and doing the business."

Elding admits his blossoming relationship with the Mariners faithful has played a huge part in his desire to stay on.

He says being happy away from the pitch is something that improves his mood on it and he's found that this season.

The former Leeds and Crewe frontman added: "I am the sort of person where if it's not right off the field, my head won't be right on it.

"I like things in order and to have everything planned.

"Now I know I will hopefully be here until 2014, I can try and do even more for the team.

"I want to fight for the club and score the goals that wins us promotion if that's possible. I love playing for the club and the fans.

"I have not been here years and years so I'm not going to walk around saying Grimsby Town is my life.

"But I have come here and loved every minute.

"I did have a bit of criticism at the start and I don't know if that was right or not.

"But I knuckled down and started to show in my performances and goals what I'm capable of.

"I am really enjoying myself here.

"I'm glad we are sorted and hope the fans are as well."

Grimsby Town: Striker Elding agrees new deal