The 21-year-old featured for the Seasiders as a trialist during our last pre-season campaign before heading out to the United States where he played at College level for the University of Nevada.

The commanding centre-back also has previous experience on the English non-league circuit have previous played for Darlington, Billingham Town and Chester-le-Street.

He has represented the England College's national team where he captained the side on a tour around Italy.

Whitby Town joint-manager Lee Bullock, said: "I coached Matty at Hartlepool Sixth Form for two years.

"He's a well-built, tall, talented centre-half who, when he was 16, grew into his body if you like. He's become a big, strong lad.

"He's been out in America doing a scholarship out there and done really well their University football

"He's back in England now and he wants to try and push on for something.

"I know him and he knows me so it's a decent opportunity for him and we are a little bit short on players."

Ridley will be available for selection in Saturday's home game with Atherton Collieries.