But despite offers to play higher up the non League pyramid he was happy to sign at the Shay because he believes the club is geared up for bigger things.

The 22-year-old central midfielder made 20 appearances for League Two Morecambe last term, and before that made more than 50 starts for Stockport County.

"I thought I had a new deal at Morecambe but ended up getting released in May," he said.

"I had no prior warning and went on holiday only to come back and find out I could go.

"I had an offer from Altrincham and went down to Droylsden, but the set up is no good at these places.

"They might be in higher leagues but the set up at Halifax is a lot better.

"Halifax has the potential to get back to where it was and I want to be part of that."

In addition to the club set up, the size of Town's support also impressed Allen when he made his home debut against Skelmersdale on Saturday.

More than 1,100 fans turned up to cheer the team to a 3-0 victory.

"I had a look on the internet before I signed and saw the average attendances at the Shay," he said. "I could not believe it.

"And when I turned up at the ground for my first training session last week I could not believe the size of the ground.

"The crowd was amazing on Saturday - a lot better than teams in higher divisions.

"It can help, but it also means that teams come to the Shay and try harder.

"But the team is on a bit of a run in the league now and it is going well."

Saturday's game was Allen's second in five days for the Shaymen having been part of the side that fought back from two down to draw at Garforth.

And he came through a full 90 minutes in both despite not having had a permanent club since the summer.

"Luckily I am quite fit anyway and I played games here and there for a few clubs," he said.

"I also trained with Stockport for a few weeks to keep myself fit."

HALIFAX Town Supporters Club are running a trip to Belle Vue greyhound track on Saturday November 15 after the home game against Chorley.

The coach leaves the Shay at 6pm and costs £9 for HTSC members and £10 for non members.

Places can be reserved by contacting Andrew Gilchrist on 07751 110597 or e-mailing andrewgilchrist@btopenworld.com.

TOWN fans wishing to travel to Bamber Bridge next Tuesday can book their places on the official coach now by calling the travel line on 07707 143094. The cost will be £13 and transport leaves the Shay at 5pm.