DEFENDER Tom Broadbent has been confirmed as Richie Wellens’ fifth January signing, joining from Bristol Rovers on a two-and-a-half-year deal.

The 26-year-old, who served as Lance Bombadier with the Royal Artillery in Afghanistan after joining the armed forces as a teenager, is understood to have joined Town on a free transfer.

Broadbent enjoyed youth spells with Southampton, Portsmouth and Bournemouth before signing his first professional contract in July 2017 with Bristol Rovers.

The 6’3” centre half has been limited in his first-team appearances with Rovers this season, prompting his mid-season move to the County Ground.

Broadbent told the club’s official website: “I’m happy to be honest – I just can’t wait to get playing. It’s a lovely ground and a big club and it should be in a higher league.

“We’re not far off the play-offs so hopefully we can have a good second half of the season and challenge.”