As preparations for another campaign in the Isthmian League continue, Whitstable Town have completed the signings of four more players, including one who was playing for Maidstone United in the National League not so long ago.

Tom Mills
Tom was a key part of the Maidstone United team that rose through the leagues to reach the top flight of non-league football. He made 341 appearances for the Stones between 2010 and 2017 and won several awards for his consistent performances, before joining Margate. We are excited that a player with his experience of playing in the National League has now agreed to join Whitstable after featuring in the 1-0 win over Cray Wanderers yesterday.

Manager Lloyd Blackman commented: “It’s fantastic news for the whole club that we were able to sign such a good player. 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 yesterday, 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."

Liam Gillies
Popular midfielder Liam Gillies has returned to Whitstable after leaving to join Sevenoaks Town for a short time at the end of last season.

Lloyd had this to say: I’m delighted to announce that Liam Gillies has returned to the Belmont after a short spell away from the club. Gillie 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. He is a young, hungry player who is a delight to work with. Welcome back Gillie."

Jay Hards
Whitstable have also completed the signing of Jay Hards. Locally based, Jay 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 Belmont club. The attacking midfielder has now signed for the 2020-21 season following his release by Gillingham.

Lloyd added: “After his short loan spell with us at the end of last season, I’m pleased to announce that Jay has signed with us for the new season. 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."

Victor Aiyelabola
Also joining is Victor Aiyelabola, who played and scored against Whitstable for Herne Bay last season. Victor also spent some time at Erith and Belvedere last season and provides further attacking options for the manager, who commented: “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 2 or 3 positions in the attacking areas and is one I’m excited to work with. Welcome Victor."