Tunbridge Wells appoint Luke Carpenter while old boss Richard Styles raids his former club to sign quartet for Whitstable Town

WHITSTABLE TOWN’S newly-appointed manager Richard Styles has raided his former club Tunbridge Wells when unveiling the clubs first four summer signings.

Styles and his assistant manager Dan Morrin departed Culverden Stadium on Monday 16 May and was announced the new management team of the relegated Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division outfit the same day.

Tunbridge Wells have appointed former Chatham Town coach Luke Carpenter as their new manager today.

Striker Matthew Gething, who scored 35 goals for Tunbridge Wells last season, has been signed, as have former team-mates central midfielders James Huggins, Jordan Wells and winger Kyron Lightfoot

“After a record-breaking scoring season last year, Geth joins.  He’s a great lad to work with and to have around the place. He’ll also get to new levels and get even better,” said Styles.

“I’m delighted to announce the signing of James Huggins.  James has a wealth of experience, previously playing for Sheppey United, Lordswood and most recently Tunbridge Wells, where he was club captain during the 2020-21 season.

“James is a great guy and one that will leave everything on the pitch for the badge.

“Jordan Wells previously played for Whitstable Town in 2012 and he since had spells at Hythe Town, Folkestone Invicta, Lordswood and Tunbridge Wells, where he had many games and contributed to all with high levels of consistency.

“I am really happy to announce the signing of winger Kyron Lightfoot to the club.

“Kyron may well be known by locals during his time spent with Herne Bay.  He has also played for Canterbury City and Tunbridge Wells.

“Kyron had a good season last season with a number of spectacular goals and assists.”

Whitstable Town were relegated from the Isthmian League after finishing bottom of the South East Division, while Tunbridge Wells were top-eight finishers in the division below, the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division.

The Oystermen received over 30 applications for the Belmont Road job, following the departure of Margate-bound Andy Drury.