BURY have brought in versatile defender Chris Stokes on a free transfer from Coventry City.

Primarily a left-back, Stokes – who can also play in the centre of defence – has signed a two-year deal at Gigg Lane.

Stokes came through the Bolton Wanderers academy and captained their youth team during a successful Youth Cup run in 2008/09.

After spending the 2009/10 season with Crewe Alexandra he moved to Conference side Forest Green Rovers, where he made more than 130 appearances.

In February 2015 Stokes joined Coventry on a 28-day loan deal with the Sky Blues, a deal which was extended to the summer and, after helping the Sky Blues retain their League One status, he made his stay a permanent one.

In his time at Coventry Stokes came close to chalking up 100 appearances and helped the club win the Checkatrade Trophy as well as return to League One last term via the play-offs.

“I'm delighted to have signed for Bury," he said. "It has probably gone on a while longer than I wanted it to, but I'm really happy to finally be here.

“Once I spoke to the manager and the staff I was really excited to join and to get it over the line.

“Now I'm here I just want to get things going and get working.”

Ryan Lowe said: “We felt that we wanted competition for the left-back position and that Chris would be a great addition for us, as he's recently been promoted from League Two to League One with Coventry.

“Chris knows what it takes to achieve in League Two – he's a great professional and a very good footballer, who comes with a pedigree.

“Coventry were up there in keeping the most clean sheets last season with Chris as part of their defensive structure.

“I'm thrilled to have Chris on board and I'm really looking forward to working with him.”