A MALVERN Town FC defender has left the club to join another local side.

Jay Sauntson has been confirmed as a new signing for Worcester Raiders FC today (Thursday).

A statement from Malvern Town FC said Sauntson was “well respected” both on and off the pitch.

The statement said: “Long-serving defender, Jay Sauntson, has decided to leave the club in search of a new challenge.

A well-respected figure both on and off the pitch, he has been a loyal servant to the club, displaying plenty of commitment to the cause and helping us finish third in our first season back at Step 5 level last term.

“We thank him most sincerely for his service and wish him every success in the future.

The news comes after striker Jordan Murphy, midfielder Joe Billingham and goalkeeper Ryan Young were all confirmed to have extended their contracts for another year.