NEWENT Town have pulled off a landmark signing with the capture of former professional striker Stuart Fleetwood, marking one of the most exciting additions in the club’s history.

The 38-year-old, who began his footballing journey with Newent Youth, has completed a remarkable return to his roots by signing for the Hellenic League outfit ahead of the new season.

Fleetwood brings with him an illustrious CV built across two decades of experience in the Football League and at the top levels of non-league football. Having started out as a promising talent at Cardiff City, he went on to make his name at Hereford United, Forest Green Rovers and Luton Town, among many others.

His arrival represents a huge boost to Newent both on and off the pitch, with his leadership and experience expected to play a vital role in the club’s ambitions this season.

Co-manager Zaq Hussain said: “Fleets is someone I’ve played with before during my time at Redditch United and when we learned of his availability it was a no brainer for us. He’s going to be a massive signing for the club. His experience and presence will be invaluable to both myself and Luke Handley. He’s been there and done it and he certainly knows where the net is. We’re absolutely delighted to welcome him.”

Fleetwood’s football story began in Newent, where as a schoolboy he scored an astonishing 104 goals in a single season. That early promise soon led him to the academy at Cardiff City where he would make his professional debut in the Football League.

He gained national attention at Hereford United, especially after netting a memorable hat trick against Coventry City in the League Cup, and enjoyed further successful spells at clubs including Exeter City, Cheltenham Town, Charlton Athletic and Luton Town.

Now a qualified coach who previously served as Head Coach at Swindon Supermarine, Fleetwood said returning to his hometown club brought his football journey full circle.

Fleetwood said: “I’m delighted to be getting the boots back on and enjoying playing again. It feels like a full circle moment, starting out as an 11 or 12 year old at Newent Youth, then going on to have the career I’ve had. To now return and offer some experience and hopefully some goals to a great local club was an easy decision. I’m looking forward to meeting everyone this weekend.”

Handley echoed Hussain’s thoughts on the signing, he said: “We’re absolutely delighted to get this one over the line. To have someone of Stuart’s calibre at the club is huge. His experience is something Zaq and I both feel we’ve been lacking so this is a big boost for everyone involved. Welcome, Fleets.”

Fleetwood is expected to feature in the club’s pre-season preparations and will no doubt provide invaluable guidance to younger players in the squad. His signing signals Newent’s intent to compete at a higher level and build something sustainable with experienced leadership at its core.