ANDREW Thomas has made a sensational return to Llanidloes Town following his release by Newtown last week.


The 35-year-old will link-up again with former Caersws stablemates Colin Reynolds and Antony Griffiths at Victoria Avenue, with the latter now managing the Spar Mid Wales League newboys.


Assistant manager Peter Jones hailed the veteran defender as a key signing for the club as they bids to rise from the ashes.


“Tommo is a big name and a big signing,” said Jones. “This will go some way in underlining our ambitions.”


Jones revealed Thomas had always hoped to wind down his successful career at Victoria Avenue, having started out at Llanidloes Town as a youngster in 1992, before making 421 appearances for Caersws.


A surprise move to Newtown came in 2008 and a further 66 appearances to push Thomas into second place in the all-time Welsh Premier appearance list with 484 - just 33 short of Colin Reynolds’ record.


Jones added: “Tommo promised he would return to Llanidloes before hanging up his boots so it is great news that he has fulfilled that vow.”


Thomas was one of six players shown the door by new Newtown manager Andy Cale who praised the veteran defender.


Cale said: “Andrew wanted to play every week and he knows there will be no guarantee of that at Newtown, so reluctantly the club has agreed to his release.


"The club would like to place on record its gratitude for the years of service given by the player.”


Also leaving Latham Park are goalkeeper Dave Jones who has signed for Technogroup Welshpool, while Dan Dawson and Andy Webb have signed for Bishops Castle and Ellesmere respectively.


Striker Paul Roberts and new midfield signing Matt Driscoll have also left the club.