Chester-born keeper, who has been at the club from an early age and turned professional back in the summer of 2003. Stuart emerged from the club's Academy set up and caught the eye playing for the Under-17's and Under-19's. Made his first team debut when he was pressed into action at Oldham Athletic in January 2003 when Danny Milosevic was forced off through injury.

Tomlinson forced his way into the first-team scene after saving four of Rochdale's penalties in a dramatic shoot-out in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy in 2006. He kept his place over the festive period but lost his place to the now departed Ben Williams again after a succession of niggling injuries.

Tommo made 10 first team appearances that season, but he has never been able to establish himself as number one and has had to gain first-team experience with loan moves to Burton, and Stafford Rangers.

Last season he suffered knee ligament damage whilst on loan at Burton will ruled him until at least October.