Tom Lees has elected to join his hometown club Harrogate Town, turning down opportunities to continue playing in the English Football League (EFL). The 35-year-old centre-back, who recently completed a career spanning over 700 games including a decade in the Championship with Leeds United, Sheffield Wednesday, and Huddersfield Town, signed a multi-year contract with the National League side.

Lees, released by Peterborough United at the end of last season, said the decision was influenced by the proximity of Harrogate Town’s stadium to his family home, allowing him to be closer to his two young children and wider family. He emphasized the importance of playing for a club that excites him and offers a sense of purpose beyond football, noting that the local connection and the club’s ambitious plans appealed to him.

“I’ve lived in and around Harrogate for most of my life. The stadium is literally five minutes from my house,” Lees commented. “I knew some of the players and staff and had spoken to manager Simon Weaver before. When he shared the club’s vision for the coming years, it felt right for me at this stage of my career.”

Lees confirmed he had offers from clubs higher up the football pyramid but chose not to pursue them, saying he no longer felt the need to prove himself and wanted to play for something that meant more than just another season on the pitch. The defender expressed a continued desire to win and maintain a strong work ethic until retirement.

Harrogate Town suffered relegation from the EFL last season following a difficult run of form, including a 20-game winless streak during the winter months. Despite that setback, Lees said there was no residual negativity around the club, pointing to the arrival of new players that have helped to reinvigorate the squad.

The club has also added FC Halifax Town midfielder Josh Hmami, forward Brad Dolaghan—who scored 23 goals in Worthing’s promotion-winning campaign—and former Tranmere Rovers left wing-back Ethan Bristow. Lees highlighted the National League’s competitive nature but expressed confidence in Harrogate’s ability to challenge for promotion.

“Getting back to the EFL is tough, but the league is wide open,” said Lees. “I see no reason why that shouldn’t be our goal.”