TOWN’S local rivals Bristol City have confirmed the loan signing of former Swindon man Ben Gladwin from Queens Park Rangers.

Earlier this afternoon, an image of the 23-year-old midfielder being presented as a City player was posted on Twitter and the Ashton Gate outfit have now confirmed that they have secured the services of Gladwin on a 93-day loan.

The former Marlow man, who was plucked from non-league by Town in November 2013, left the County Ground to join QPR alongside Massimo Luongo in a multi-million pound deal last summer.

Gladwin was back at the County Ground earlier this season, initially rejoining his former club on an emergency loan deal on October 9 before that extended deal ended earlier this month as he was recalled by Loftus Road boss Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink to feature in an FA Cup tie against Nottingham Forest.

The midfielder played 13 times and scored twice in his second spell with Swindon.

Meanwhile, former Town triallist Richard Eckersley has been released by Oldham Athletic following the completion of his contract.

Eckersley, who tried out with Town in the summer, will continue his rehabilitation from an ankle injury with the club following his release.

New Latics manager John Sheridan said: “Eckersley is injured and wouldn’t be available for another four weeks so he’s going to get treatment and when he’s fit, we’ll have another look at him.