Torquay Snap Up Wanderers Defender

By Mark Heys
September 21 2007

Blue Square Premier League side Torquay United have signed Bolton Wanderers youngster Mark Ellis in an attempt to boost their defensive options ahead of their game against Kidderminster Harriers this weekend.

The 18-year old moves to Plainmoor on a months loan as the Devon side look to bounce back into league football at the first attempt following their relegation at the end of last season.

Ellis cost Bolton £95,000 when moving from Exeter City two years ago and the fee could turn out to be as much as £600,000 should the Plymouth-born centre half fulfill his potential.

He turned professional at the Reebok Stadium earlier this year and Torquay manager Paul Buckle knows the player well having assisted in his youth development.

"I coached Mark in the Exeter youth team and his ability was there to see, he is very strong and very commited. It was no surprise when a big club came looking at him. The two years he has had at Bolton will have helped him and I've kept an eye on him since his move. I'm delighted to have him here and I'm sure he will enjoy being back in the area'."

Ellis is not the only member of last seasons reserve league winning title squad to be sent out on loan as earlier this season Polish youth international Jaroslaw Fojut joined Luton Town.