Tom Thorley quits Telford over 38-minute drive

The 25-year-old penned a one-year contract when he joined from Hednesford in May, but has now agreed to pay to terminate his deal.

The midfielder, a schoolteacher who drives a car, said he wanted to leave because of the 26-mile, 38-minute commute to the New Bucks Head.

Thorley, who never played for Telford, is set to rejoin the Pitmen – some 10 miles from his home.

Telford managing director Lee Carter said: "He spoke to us about five weeks ago to express his view that signing for Telford was impacting upon his lifestyle and he was finding the travelling from Walsall difficult.

"I said that was ridiculous as he drove here twice before signing for us.

"His regret was he signed a contract so quickly. He said he wanted to play elsewhere so we told him to go and find a club.

"We believe he's rejoining Hednesford.

"His only reason for leaving is the impact of travelling to Telford might have on his lifestyle and I have no reason to disbelieve him.

"We even signed Danny Glover, who's one of his best friends in football, but he still wants to leave, so it tells me he's genuine."

Thorley is Telford's third summer signing to leave before a ball has been kicked. Neil Harvey left after his work commitments altered and Jay Denny rejoined Halesowen Town because the move didn't work out.

Boss Steve Kittrick tried to persuade Thorley to stay by allowing him to halve his training to once a week.

"The manager tried to find a compromise," added Carter. "But after returning from holiday last week, Tom expressed his desire to leave.

"The club have accepted a cash offer from the player to terminate his contract, which wasn't due to start until August 8."