Benton moving back to Paignton from Torquay | 'Torquay have been really good to me – and it's a good club – but there's just something at Paignton that's drawn me back' – George Benton

George Benton - on the way back to Paignton from Torquay

By CONRAD SUTCLIFFE

GEORGE Benton is on his way back to Premier Division Paignton after the briefest of stays along the sea front road at Torquay.

Benton, who skippered Paignton to second place in last season’s Premier Division, cited his desire for a ‘fresh start’ and a ‘new challenge’ for his motivation to move.

Six games into the season Benton realised home is where the heart is and he headed back to Queen’s Park.

Said Benton: “I haven't enjoyed being away as much as I thought.

“Torquay have been really good to me – and it's a good club – but there's just something at Paignton that's drawn me back.

“Mark Orchard (the captain) has a good plan with the club and I'm looking forward to hopefully being able to help, want to find the enjoyment in playing again.”

Orchard, who succeeded Benton as captain during the close season said he was delighted to have a quality player back in the camp.

“George adds experience and more quality to the very good squad we have coming through,” said Orchard.

“When I spoke to him I could hear his enthusiasm to come back and buy into what we're doing this year.Ian Jarman - on the move to Cullompton

“George is probably the best opening bowler in the county if he's fit and firing. Add his batting into that and we've signed another quality player to make the club stronger.”

Tom Drake, the Torquay captain, said he was disappointed to lose Benton but understood his reasons.

“George has just fallen out of love with the game so going back to Paignton, where he will feel less pressured to play and perform, is understandable,” said Drake.

“George leaving has left a hole for us but, irrespective we wish him all the best for the future and would welcome him back at the drop of a hat.”

There have been Bentons in the Paignton 1stXI for three generations dating back to the 1940s so family ties are strong.

George followed father Keith as Paignton 1stXI captain. A rare family treble is that George, his brother Seb and dad Keith have all played for Devon.Mike Benton, George’s uncle, was a long-time 3rd XI captain at the club.

Also on the move is Abbotskerswell’s keeper-batsman Ian Jarman, who has left Two Mile Oak for Cullompton.

Jarman, whose film-star looks earned him an acting role in the Bollywood film '83' as a stand-in for England wicketkeeper Ian Gould, has previously played for Barton and Cockington.

Jarman’s reason for moving clubs is purely practical.

“I work in Exeter so, logistically, it fairly easy to get to Cullompton, hence the move,” said Jarman.

“I am looking forward to a new challenge.”