Chris Blackburn was signed by Jim Harvey in February of 2004 on a short term deal until the end of the season. The midfielder only played five games for Morecambe, losing four of them, before he was allowed to leave the club to spend time in America.

However, before Blackburn's departure he signed a two year deal with the club and Chris returned to Christie Park to join his team mates for the 2004/2005 season.

Blackburn was converted to a defender for his first full season at the club due to an injury crisis that saw the team desperately short of defenders. Chris took to his new position like a duck to water and he had a fantastic season playing in the Shrimps back line, either as a right back or a centre back.

The 2005/2006 season saw Blackburn become one of the first players on the team sheet at Christie Park. His fantastic form saw him earn a call up to the England National Game team where he played at right back with team mate David Perkins playing at left back.

He also scored two goals for the Shrimps that season, one against Daisy Hill in the Lancashire Cup and one against Burton Albion at home in the Conference.

Blackburn signed a new one year contract in the Summer of 2006 and was a regular in the side that won promotion to the Football League in the 2006/2007 season.

Despite being offered a record deal by Morecambe Football Club he decided to sign for League One side Swindon Town on a two year deal in July 2007.

Upon his departure Blackburn said: "Once I knew Swindon were interested my mind was made up really.

"I want to play at the highest level and become a better defender which I'm sure will happen.

"I had a great time at Morecambe. They are a great set of lads and I wish them well for the season.''

picture courtesy of the Visitor