WIMBORNE Town have announced the return of goalkeeper Gerard Benfield, with the 24-year-old returning to the Magpies from Weymouth.

This season Benfield spent time on loan at Weymouth’s rivals Dorchester, who are currently embroiled in the same relegation battle as Wimborne.

Weymouth cut the loan short just before Christmas, with Benfield required after fellow deputy Harrison Bruton broke a finger.

It will be the 24-year-old’s second spell with the Magpies, after a three-year stint between 2016 and 2019.

After leaving Wimborne for Salisbury in the summer of 2019, Weymouth swooped to bring the highly-rated youngster in to their newly promoted National League set-up.

Benfield would only go on to play four times for the Terras, with reports of a rift forming between himself and manager Brian Stock.

On Benfield's departure, Stock told Weymouth's website: “I’d like to thank Gerard for all his efforts during his time with Weymouth FC.

"He has a very likeable personality and will be sorely missed in the changing room.

"Gerard had to be patient last season, the one thing we highlighted this year before signing him for the season was for him to play games while on loan.

"He did that with Dorchester and has done really well.

" I think the opportunity now to play regular games at Wimborne, a club where he is loved was an option Gerard felt was right for him at this present time of his career.

"On behalf of myself, the players, staff and everyone associated with Weymouth we wish Gerard all the best for the future and thank him for his contributions to Weymouth FC.”

Magpies manager James Stokoe had previously been coy about any potential deal after Benfield had been spotted at a Wimborne match, stating: “I mean Gez (Gerard Benfield) is a brilliant keeper.

“He spent time at the club before, he comes down to watch when he's available to come and watch.

“So, it's a conversation (signing for Wimborne) I might have with him.”

Benfield made 16 appearances for Dorset’s other Magpies in the Southern Premier, with his arrival a boost to Wimborne’s survival chances.

The Daily Echo understands that Tommy Scott will not be making his stint with the Magpies permanent. Benfield should be available for selection tomorrow, as Yate Town visit the New Cuthbury (kick-off 3pm.)