GOALKEEPER Tom Rees described as “bittersweet” his departure from Poole Town after joining Hamworthy United.

The 27-year-old follows in the footsteps of new Hammers boss Callum Brooks, who left the assistant manager role at Poole for the County Ground earlier this month.

Rees has spent the past three seasons as understudy to Dolphins number one Nick Hutchings.

He told the club website: “I’m very excited to have joined Hamworthy. The project here is very much something I wanted to get into.

“I’ve worked with Cal before and I know what he is about, and that is one of the main things. I’m also excited to have a chance at regular first-team football.

“I really enjoyed my time at Poole and I am grateful for all they have done for me. I learned a lot working with Robbie Yates (goalkeeping coach) and Nick Hutchings.

“It’s bittersweet. I’m leaving a great bunch of lads but I’m moving on to a great club with their own great bunch of lads.”

Former Poole Borough man Rees is the fifth confirmed member of Hamworthy’s squad for next season, with Sam Bayston, Ollie Davis, Jamie Gleeson and Nathan Walker already signed up.

Rees will link up with his new team-mates for the start of pre-season training on July 1.