Whitstable Town boss Lloyd Blackman unveils Tom Mills signing

WHITSTABLE TOWN manager Lloyd Blackman has unveiled the signing of left-back Tom Mills.

Mills, 28, made 341 appearances for Maidstone United between 2010 and 2017 before joining Margate and has signed for Isthmian League South East Division side Whitstable Town having featured in the side’s 1-0 home pre-season win over Cray Wanderers at the weekend.

“It’s fantastic news for the whole club that we are able to sign such a good player,” Blackman told the club website.

“I have been speaking to Tom for a few weeks and our conversations have been really, really positive.

“After an excellent individual and collective performance on Saturday, I was delighted we were able to get his signature.

“He is good friends with a few lads here already and will be a fantastic asset to us as we prepare for the new season.

Midfielder Liam Gillies has returned to Whitstable Town following a short spell with their league rivals Sevenoaks Town.

“Liam was outstanding for us at the beginning of last season and after speaking during the summer, he made it very clear to me that he would love to return,” added Blackman.

“He is a young, hungry player who is a delight to work with.”

Blackman has completed the signing of Jay Hards.

The locally based attacking midfielder came through the youth system at Gillingham and joined Whitstable on loan towards the end of last season, becoming the third generation of the Wilkinson family to play for the club.

Blackman said: “Jay can give us a lot of versatility and has made an excellent impression during pre-season. Although not the tallest, his work rate and desire is second to none. Welcome on board Jay."

Attacker Victor Aiyelabola has also put pen to paper to sign for Whitstable Town, following spells with Herne Bay and Erith & Belvedere last season.

Blackman added: “Victor trained with us at the end of last season before lockdown and impressed then. We were in touch during the summer and since he’s been back this season, he’s been first class.

“He is technically very gifted and again can play in two or three positions in the attacking areas and is one I’m excited to work with.”

Visit Whitstable Town’s website: www.whitstabletownfc.club