The midfielder was told of his parent club's decision to end his loan at Halifax after Tuesday's 3-1 win at Warrington.

It was news that was kept from him by boss Neil Aspin until after the final whistle at Cantilever Park.

And while Winter would have been happy to have stayed to the end of the season - and beyond - he knows that it is the Vics who call the tune.

"I would like to stay here but if I have to go back, I have to go back," he said. "That's just part of football.

"I have loved it here and after each game I have played I have felt fitter.

"The fans have been great with me, very welcoming, and the players are all top lads and there is a good atmosphere at the club."

Winter has certainly made his mark at the Shay with five goals, including a double in the 5-0 thrashing of Ossett Albion and one of the best strikes of the season at home to Prescot last weekend.

And he has urged the players he is leaving behind to go on and finish off the job of winning promotion.

"I have played 11 league games and think I have helped the team," he said.

"I wanted to be here for the big games, win the league and get a medal.
"I wish the lads all the best and hope they can go on to win it because they deserve it."

Northwich are currently operating under a transfer embargo and boss Andy Preece is also believed to be recalling Danny Meadowcroft from his stint at Colwyn Bay to boost his squad.

That means the former Shayman, who skippered the side on one occasion last season under Jim Vince, will miss out on a return to Halifax when the Welshmen are in town on Saturday.

Winter will also miss that game unless something dramatic happens but Shay fans will be pleased to hear that he has not ruled out a return to the club in the future.

"It is a really good club and hopefully I may be back one day," he said.


TOWN fans wishing to travel to Clitheroe on Tuesday evening can book their places on the supporters' bus now by calling 07707 143094. The cost will be £11 and transport leaves the Shay at 6.15.

Bookings are also being taken for the trip to AFC Fylde on March 20 when the cost will be £13 with transport leaving the Shay at 12.30.