Shrewsbury Town have ventured north of the border to wrap up their third summer signing – as they wave farewell to one of their existing players.

Falkirk’s Dean Holden has made the switch from SPL outfit Falkirk after agreeing a two-year contract, while Marc Pugh’s stint at the Prostar Stadium has come to an end.

Holden began his career at Bolton before spells at Oldham and Peterborough before moving onto Falkirk.

And manager Paul Simpson is delighted the 29-year-old has elected to continue his career at Shrewsbury.

“Over the last couple of weeks, it’s become clear to me that Darren Moss wasn’t going to be signing and I’m delighted we have got Dean in,” said Simpson.”He is a very versatile player who specialises at right back but can play anywhere across the back four.”He has played at a very good level and wanted to come back to England now.”SettlementSimpson’s attentions have now turned to the goalkeeper department, as well as a creative wide player ahead of next Wednesday’s return to pre-season training.One player who won’t be there is Pugh who has brought his two-year stay with Shrewsbury to an end after agreeing a settlement on the final 12 months of his contract.Pugh has saw his opportunities restricted last season, and spent the last two months of the campaign on loan at Hereford.”We had a chat at the end of last season and I told him my plans and we both decided it would be best to try and reach an agreement,” added Simpson.”I have no problems with Marc as a person and he hasn’t caused me a moment’s bother.”But hopefully the savings made by doing this will help us strengthen the squad further.”

By James Garrison