Tomas Holy has thanked Gillingham for the memories in a heartfelt message to the club and its supporters.

The big Czech Republic keeper turned down an offer from the Gills this summer and has instead joined their new League 1 rivals Ipswich Town.

Holy was unveiled as Town’s new keeper last month, ending a two and a half year spell at Priestfield.

In a message addressed to Gillingham FC on his facebook page, the 27 year-old said: “I want to thank you so much for everything you have done for me in last two and half year.

"You will always be the first who gave me a chance to play football in England and I will never forget that.

“It was a real honour to wear your shirt and fight for you. Also thank you Mr Scally (the Gills chairman) and thankyou to all the absolutely amazing supporters.

"It was a great pleasure to work with all coaches and my teammates. I will miss you all!

“Thankyou for many memories and experiences which I’m taking with me and true friends I have made. I wish you only the best and success in your future and we will see each other very soon. Thankyou Gills.”

Holy was former manager Ady Pennock’s first signing, arriving after a recommendation from then goalkeeper coach Ian Pledger.

He was understudy to Stuart Nelson before taking over the no.1 jersey and going onto make 107 appearances for the club, playing in every league game for the Gills last season.

Holy is the second oversees keeper in recent times to have kick-started their career following a spell with the Gills. Argentine stopper Paulo Gazzaniga played 22 games for the club in the 2011/12 season before being signed by Southampton.

Gazzaniga went onto join Spurs and was on the bench for them in the Champions League final against Liverpool.

Gillingham have replaced Holy with former Brentford keeper Jack Bonham, who last week agree a two-year deal at the club.