Hird joins the Reds for the rest of the 2018/19 campaign and can play both in central defence and as a defensive midfielder.

Hird’s career began at Leeds United, initially as a striker before being converted into a defender; he captained the youth and reserve teams.

He was loaned out to Doncaster Rovers in 2007 before moving to the Keepmoat on a permanent basis.

A loan spell at Grimsby Town followed before returning back to Doncaster,

Hird made 157 appearances for Donny, before moving to Chesterfield in 2012 on a free transfer where he would stay until the end of the 2017/18 season.

Hird was instrumental in the Spireites League Two title campaign in the 2013/14 season; he was named player of the year in the 2015/16 season before being released at the end of the last campaign when Chesterfield were relegated to the National League.

Hird made 231 appearances in all competitions for Chesterfield, scoring 10 goals.

Manager Billy Heath told Alfreton`s press officer Amar Sharma: “Sam brings massive experience to us and he has played in the Football League. His time with Chesterfield saw him win the League Two title and also experience relegation. Sam is a fantastic character to have around and he is a quality player; we are so pleased to have him with us and it’s a big signing for us.”

“We are still moving forward and we are always making sure we bring the right people into the club. We are delighted to have Sam join the Reds and provide both experience and quality”.