Harrogate Town has signed experienced defender Tom Lees, who has turned down EFL offers to join his hometown club. Lees arrives with almost 700 professional appearances to his name after spells with Leeds, Sheffield Wednesday, Huddersfield Town, and Peterborough United. He made 33 League One appearances for the Posh last season. According to Opta, Lees has made 617 league starts across England's top four divisions since his first league campaign with Accrington Stanley in 2009-10 while on loan from Leeds. No player has started more league games in that time. Lees said the chance to represent his hometown club proved too good to turn down. 'I'm really happy to be here and meet everybody, it's been a great day,' he told the club. 'I've had a few offers in the Football League, but after sitting down and talking with the club, there's an exciting couple of years in store here and the start of a good project.' Harrogate Town is preparing for their return to the National League in 2026/27, with long-serving boss Simon Weaver targeting an immediate promotion push after last season's relegation. Head of player recruitment Lloyd Kerry believes Lees' experience and leadership qualities will prove invaluable both on and off the pitch. 'We're delighted to have him,' Kerry said. 'He comes in with great experience and a CV that speaks for itself. He's a proper leader so will come in and set the standards and guide some of the young lads.' Next fixture: vs Boreham Wood (at home, 2027-02-20).