Magician Ronnie Moore pulls rabbit out of hat for Hartlepol United with keeper Adam Bartlett

After producing an escape act of Houdini proportions last season, the Hartlepool United boss continues to pull transfer rabbits out of the hat.

Moore yesterday made signing number nine of an incredible summer shopping spree after bringing in keeper Adam Bartlett.

An experienced hand, who started his career at Newcastle United academy, Bartlett found himself without a club after Gateshead released him.

It came as a shock to the player, as well as fans of Gateshead, given his form over three seasons at the International Stadium, with many pundits rating him as one of the best in the Conference.

Moore acted quickly to bring him in and while fellow summer signing, Trevor Carson starts as the number one, the Pools boss told SportMail that the 29-year-old Geordie will keep the Irishman on his toes.

“It was a big surprise [Gateshead let him go] but a massive boost for us,” said Moore. “We were looking for a number two and [goalkeeping coach] Tony Caig recommended him.

“We know all about him. We need that experience, it’s very rare to get someone as good and experienced as him.”

He played 114 times for Blyth Spartans, 45 games at Kidderminster Harriers and 110 times for Hereford United in the Football League before joining Gateshead in 2012.

Bartlett, who stands 6ft tall, made 130 appearances for the Conference side.

“If Trevor was away with Northern Ireland or something, we needed someone who could come in and fill his boots, we didn’t want a young lad at this moment in time,” said Moore.

“Adam fits the criteria we were loking for. He’s good, he’s got league and non-league experience and he’ll push Trevor, which is what we want.”