We’re delighted to welcome goalkeeper Declan Lambton to Bradford (Park Avenue), for the 2026-27 season, subject to FA and league approval.
Lambton, 25, joins the West Yorkshire outfit after leaving Matlock Town at the end of the last campaign. The Bradford-based number one started the 2025-26 season with recently-promoted Emley AFC, having also been part of their promotion from the NCEL Premier Division to the Northern Premier League – East Division in 2024.
Known by many in non-league as one of the best goalkeepers in the region and at this level of football, Lambton started his career with Guiseley AFC and signed a first team contract in 2021. To help him gain experience, Lambton had spells at Pontefract Collieries, Brighouse Town, Albion Sports and Campion AFC before making the move to the Pewits.
The 25 year old was a key figure in Emley’s success, making over 170 appearances and keeping 21 clean sheets before his move to Matlock Town. After making the move to Derbyshire, Lambton was part of the Gladiators’ team that secured second place in the league, with the season coming to an end at the hands of Bradford in May.
The young shot-stopper used to watch Avenue from the Horsfall terraces during our time in the National League North and had no hesitation to sign on the dotted line:
“I’m excited to join BPA. I know a lot about the Club, especially as I live up the road from the ground. It has big plans and I want be a part of it because it’s a good place with a great squad and they’re doing good things in the community. I used to come and watch BPA with my mates, so this place holds good memories for me. It’s great to finally come and play for the Club. I know the goalkeeping coach (Karl Lenighan), the staff and some of the players already and they’ve said good things, so it was a no-brainer to sign for BPA.”
The Bradford boss Craig Elliott has been quick to snap up the talented goalkeeper, who has plenty of experience and has his best years ahead of him:
“Dec has been the best goalkeeper in this league for the past few seasons. It’s a vital position and I’m delighted to secure a goalkeeper of his ability, and as a local lad, he’s a perfect fit. He has helped both Emley AFC and Matlock Town achieve playoff places in the last few years and I look forward to working with him at BPA.”
The Club would like to thank supporters for their generous donations to the Development Fund and their ongoing support to help Craig and his team build a strong squad for the 2026-27 season.
Everyone at Bradford can’t wait to welcome Dec between the sticks for the next campaign and wish him the best of luck for the new campaign.
You can watch Dec next season at BPA with your 2026-27 season ticket – BUY NOW!