TAUNTON Town have re-signed their former centre-half Ed Palmer from Truro City.

Palmer became a popular figure during his previous spell with the Peacocks two seasons ago, helping the club reach the FA Cup first round proper for the first time in 35 years.

He scored the equaliser against Barrow in the first round replay - a match Town would go on to lose 2-1 - with one of numerous fine free-kicks he converted for the club, with another against Hereford at the Viridor Stadium also standing out.

He now returns from Truro City - managed by former Taunton boss Leigh Robinson - after having his contract cancelled by the National League South side.

Palmer told the club website: “I’m absolutely delighted to be back and can’t wait to get started again.

"It’s no secret I missed the club and now that I’m back I want to help push us on for promotion.

"When Rob [Dray] said there was a possibility of a return to the Viridor I jumped at the chance. I know the set-up well and I’ve got some very good friends here so it’s time to knuckle down and enjoy my football again.”

Peacocks head of football Rob Dray added: “Getting Ed back to the Viridor was an easy decision for me once Matt and I were made aware of his availability.

"He is technically superb and is great in the changing room, and like Lewis Hall joining us last week, comes from a National League club.

"Most importantly for us he wants to be here, he understands what we are trying to build and is hungry and motivated to do it.”

Palmer's arrival adds to the stiff competition for places in the Peacocks backline - he joins Keith Emmerson, Ben Adelsbury, Josh Nelmes, Shane White and Brett Trowbridge as options at centre-half.

His return is likely to prove popular, not least due to his quality on the ball and impact from set pieces, though if there is to be a question mark it surrounds discipline.

Palmer's previous spell with Taunton ended with a red card in the play-off semi-final defeat at Tiverton Town and he has picked up three yellow cards and one red for Truro so far this season.

The Peacocks are hoping to include Palmer in their squad for Saturday's trip to Swindon Supermarine.