Ryan signs Martyrs Defender, but duo depart

Newtown Manager Darren Ryan has finally landed the defender he has been seeking to sign in January, by bringing Merthyr's Lee Hartshorn to Mid Wales Leisure Laham Park.

Hartshorn joined The Martyrs from Welsh League outfit Merthyr Saints during 2008 and immediately made an impact. Last season he established himself in Merthyr central defence scoring a number of important goals in a fine campaign. This season Hartshorn has found it difficult to command a regular spot in the Merthtyr side and the Robins' boss swooped to sign him.

Andrew Webb, a former Guilsfield youngster, who joined Newtown in 2003/4 has returned to the club. He had spells with Defaid Du and Four Crosses before returning to Latham Park from Shawbury United.

On their way out though are duo Mattie Lewis and Dave McGuire who have both been released by the club. Lewis has been released at his own request by manager Darren Ryan and has signed for Rhayader Town after failing to claim a regular place in the side this season.

Goalkeeper Dave McGuire has been transferred to Technogroup Welshpool Town and will go straight into their side to meet Haverfordwest tomorrow. The Ulsterman joined the Robins in the summer from Shrewsbury and had been the first choice at the club until Dave Roberts arrived on loan from Aberystwyth.

Leiws had been with the Robins for five season, making 72 appearances and being on the bench on 30 occasions. The Llanidloes-born winger who played for Coventry against West Ham in the 1999 FA Youth Cup final, has represented Wales at Under-15, 16 and 18 levels. He played for Team Bath while studying Coach Education and Sports Performance at the University of Bath, also for Bath City, Kidderminster Harriers, Hinckley United, Evesham United, Solihull Borough and Coventry Marconi.

Manager Darren Ryan had hoped both would stay to fight for their places but has wished them well in their future careers.