Ben Garratt announces retirement from football

The 32-year-old made the move to the Swansway Stadium in February 2024, becoming an ever-present for the Dabbers with 108 appearances, keeping 26 clean sheets.

A Crewe native, Garratt began his career with his hometown club, Crewe Alexandra, rising through the ranks as a youngster to eventually make his debut in 2013.

After six years at the club, where he featured 250 times, he departed for Burton Albion in 2019, enjoying four more seasons in League One before his move to Nantwich Town.

Due to work and family commitments, Garratt has made the difficult decision to step away from football, saying: "I just want to thank everyone involved with the club for the past couple of years. We shared some great times, and I met some special people along the way. 

“I’m sure the club will achieve the success that you all deserve in the very near future. Up the Dabbers!”

Nantwich Town manager Luke Goddard added: "I think normally we would be hugely disappointed when someone of Ben’s calibre leaves the club, but on this occasion and circumstance, I have nothing but respect for Ben and his situation. 

"With a young family that is due to get bigger, he needs to prioritise work and family life; stepping away from football is something that has been in his thought process over the past season.

"He’s been an ultra-professional and is popular at the club because of the respect he has earned. We know he will keep an eye out on the Dabbers and hopefully get to a few games this season to say hello to everyone.

“I’m sure I speak on behalf of everyone connected with the club in wishing Ben and his family all the very best with their future.”