One of the Welsh Premier League’s most recognisable faces Shane Sutton has ended his nine-year association with Newtown after joining AFC Telford.

Sutton established himself as one of the league’s most reputable defenders during his 200-plus appearances for the Robins, where he formed a formidable central defensive partnership alongside Kieran Mills-Evans.

Speaking to the club’s official website, the 27-year old explained the possibility of leaving Latham Park came about unexpectedly.

“It was a very tough decision to make”, he said.

“My contract was all sorted for next season and I was really looking forward to it, it would have been my 10th with the club. An old friend from when I was at Shrewsbury got hold of me and said the Telford manager had asked for my number.

“I had two weeks to think about it, and that is something I don’t want to have to do again.”

Sutton’s final Newtown appearance was their play-off semi-final loss to Bangor City earlier this month, a defeat which played a part in his decision to leave the club he joined from Shrewsbury in 2007.

“The disappointment of not getting into Europe played a factor,” he revealed. “I want to be playing in the biggest games I possibly can, in front of big crowds.

“I’ve learn since I broke my leg it is a very short career, and you have to play at the highest standard you can, while you can.

“I want to try and prove myself in the English leagues.

“It is going to be very difficult, but I find I’m a better player when I am under pressure and out of my comfort zone.”

Newtown manager Chris Hughes spoke of his disappointment to lose Sutton as he faces the unenviable task of trying to replace his club captain.  

“We are obviously disappointed to lose Shane, he has been a massive figure for us in recent years. He has been a fantastic servant to this football club, and he is a big loss for us.”

Altrincham Sign Connah’s Quay Duo
Full-backs Lewis Short and John Disney have both agreed terms with Altrincham after they were included in a list of six names to leave Connah’s Quay.

Both Short and Disney featured regularly for the Welsh Premier League runners-up this season and join fellow defender Wes Baynes, midfielder Tom Field and forwards Shelton Payne and Nick Rushton heading out of door at the Deeside Stadium.

Baynes’ departure is also particularly surprising with the 28-year old developing a reputation as one of the best right-backs in the league following his move from Colwyn Bay two seasons ago and manager Andy Morrison now has some defensive gaps to fill prior to his side’s Europa League campaign which begins next months.  

Tom Field arrived at Connah’s Quay last season but struggled but the playmaking midfielder failed to find the same form which he showed at previous club Airbus.

Manchester-based winger Payne departs after struggling with injuries in his brief spell with the club whilst Nick Rushton officially leaves after enjoying a successful loan spell at Newtown in the second-half of the season.