The deal means goal machine Lester – who has scored 50 times for the Spireites in the last two years – will remain with the Blues until June, 2011.

He had 12 months left on his initial three-year contract but fresh talks began last week and an agreement has been reached to tie him to the club for a further year.

Lester (33), who indicated that he wanted to finish his playing career with Chesterfield, said: "I am really pleased as this contract extension means I can look forward to being part of the exciting new future being lined up for the Spireites, including the move to the new stadium."

Manager John Sheridan was also delighted with the agreement. He said: "By extending his contract Jack is now part of our longer-term plans for Chesterfield.''

Meanwhile, Chesterfield FC kick off their 2009/10 season on the English Riviera – with an away match at newly-promoted Torquay United.

The Gulls gained their place in League Two via the Conference play-offs and John Sheridan's men begin their campaign at Plainmoor, on Saturday, August 8.

Chesterfield travel to the Don Valley Stadium to face title-favourites Rotherham on Saturday, September 5, while the Spireites entertain Conference champions Burton Albion on Saturday, October 24.

Boxing Day sees the Blues make the journey to Lincoln while the Millers make the return trip to Saltergate two days later.

The last day of the season – Saturday, May 8, 2010 – could be a significant day in Chesterfield FC history.

For Bournemouth are the visitors for what could be the Spireites last-ever League match at Saltergate.

The Blues, meanwhile, have been handed a tough draw in the first round of the Carling Cup.

The Spireites have been drawn away against Championship new boys Scunthorpe United.

The Glanford Park side bounced back into the Championship, following a 3-2 play-offs final victory over Millwall, after a season in League One.

The game is set to be played on the week beginning August 10.

Meanwhile, manager John Sheridan has been testing the waters, investigating which players may be available for a move to Saltergate. Sheridan is keen to mount a promotion challenge and has said that he would like to bring in 'one or two' players to add to strength and depth to his squad.

''I am looking around to see who is available,'' said the new team chief.

It was reported in Oldham – the team Sheridan managed until March – that the former Latics captain Sean Gregan, who has not been offered a new contract, was being lined up for a move to north Derbyshire.

It was suggested that Gregan (34), who began his career with Darlington and had big-money moves to Preston, West Brom and Leeds United before he went to Boundary Park, was about to be reunited with his old manager.

But Sheridan dismissed such talk. ''I have no interest in Sean.