WIMBORNE Town have announced their first new recruit ahead of the 2022/23 season, with local stalwart Ashley Wells arriving at the club from Dorset neighbours Dorchester.

Wells played 300 times for Weymouth over the span of a decade prior to departing for rivals Dorch, captaining both clubs.

Adept across the backline, Wells adds experience to a Magpies side looking to return to the Southern League Premier South at the first attempt after their relegation last campaign. The 30-year-old has previously spent time with Wimborne whilst with the Terras, enjoying a short loan-spell during the 2019/20 season where he played 13 times.

That loan move was obviously a positive experience for Wells, who stated that his previous experience with Wimborne meant that after departing Dorchester, there was only one club to sign for.

Wells told the club’s website: “As soon as I left Dorchester there was only one club that I wanted to go to.”

“That was Wimborne, having been there a few seasons ago on a loan move, where I was made to feel instantly welcome.

“I’d love nothing more than to help go in there and get them back up where they should be.

“After a chat with the manager and hearing the thoughts for the season, and the ambition of the club, it was really a no brainier.

“Plus, the new ground is an incredible place and I can’t wait to play my football there.”

Magpies boss James Stokoe, who was assistant manager at the time of Wells’ last stint with Wimborne, also shared his excitement at bringing in such an established name in the non-league circuit.

Stokoe started: “I’m really pleased to get this signing over the line nice and early.

“Ash is a great lad with so much experience from higher leagues.

“He can play in multiple positions and is a great addition to the changing room.”

Wimborne have previously confirmed that Harry Morgan, Dan Bartlett and Ben Scorey have all signed deals for the 2022/23 campaign.