Altrincham Football Club News Archive
June, 2007

First leg: 19 July, second leg: 2 August.

STEWARDS NEEDED

Also additional volunteers are required for the following on match days:

FREE SEASON TICKETS

UNBELIEVABLE

The club had previously been set a deadline of June 30 to pay off the remainder of the cash it owes to former players, staff, HM Revenue and Customs and its landlord Crawley Borough Council. An agreement that 50p for every pound owed to creditors was reached last year under the terms of the agreement but has so far not been paid, despite assurances from the club that it would. The sale of the flat is seen by Begbies Traynor [who recently dealt with Scarborough in a much shorter time] as a last ditch method of ensuring the debts are paid and allowing the club to start this season in the Conference league. However that deadline is now likely to be extended. Mr Sadler said: 'A further sum of approximately £140,000 is required to pay the balance of the dividend due to creditors under the terms of the Company Voluntary Arrangement proposal. This sum is secured upon the residential property of Azwar Majeed. In order to effect the sale and distribution of the funds, I will be proposing a short extension of the arrangement. While creditors could object to this proposal it is unlikely that they will turn down the opportunity to receive the proceeds of Mr Majeed's property'... Azwar Majeed was unavailable for comment yesterday".

OLD BOY

OTHER BSCP NEWS

"Tim Sills is the latest addition to Paul Buckle's squad" at Torquay United. "The 6ft 2in striker has signed a two year contract with the Gulls and will join the squad next week for training.... [But] striker Lee Thorpe has had his contract mutually terminated. Lee played 44 games for Torquay last season and scored 8 times".

"Rob Smith, manager of Blue Square North club AFC Telford United, has completed his summer shopping spree with the signing of former Shrewsbury Town favourite Steve Jagielka. The 29-year-old has shaken hands on a move from Nationwide North champions Droylsden and will put pen-to-paper on a one-year contract at training on Thursday evening".

"Oxford United defender Luke Foster has confirmed his place in manager Jim Smith's plans by signing a new twelve-month deal. Foster, 21, joined the U's from Blue Square North side Stalybridge Celtic in March and impressed enough to earn a longer stay".

"Stevenage Borough confirm that they’ve agreed terms with defender Mark Arber to join on 1 August from Peterborough. The 29 year old centre half has made over 400 appearances in a Football League career spanning 9 years. Chairman Phil Wallace said 'Mark is a great signing for us. If there was one thing we possibly lacked at times last season, it was experience at the back. Mark has made over 400 appearances with Barnet, Oldham and Peterborough.... The search is now focused on a quality striker to add to the squad'".

At Northwich Vics "Neil Redfearn has unveiled his new player coach as Kevin Sharp. The vastly experienced defender Sharp was born in Canada and has played for Leeds United, Wigan Athletic, Huddersfield and of late Hamilton Academicals".

FromCambridge United we learn that "A date has been set for the transfer tribunal concerning Robbie Simpson. The 22-year-old striker is set to join Coventry City next week but the two clubs have failed to agree a transfer fee so a transfer tribunal will decide upon a compensation package on Monday 9th July... He will be out of contract at the end of this month and is expected to sign for Coventry City on July 1st, but because he is under the age of 24 and was offered a new contract by United the club is entitled to compensation".

The Gravesend Reporter says that "Liam Daish has admitted he may struggle to re-sign Mark DeBolla after the midfielder made an unexpected U-turn in wanting to put pen-to-paper... DeBolla had previously rejected numerous contract offers, forcing the Ebbsfleet United boss to look elsewhere and bring in Woking's Neil Barrett. The former Grays player now appears willing to negotiate new terms, yet with Barrett already in place and a limited budget required to buy two new strikers, Daish insists it's now a question of priorities. 'Mark had turned down a number of contract offers and I was resigned to losing him', the Fleet boss explained. 'I then moved on and brought in Neil Barrett and now Mark has been in touch and wants to sign. Mark was my first choice but, for whatever reason, he did not want to sign and now he does. I've always wanted him but the timing and the budget restrictions have hampered that. I'm trying to juggle everything, but it's very difficult'. DeBolla could potentially have provided an alternative up front, where the Fleet are now short of options following Onome Sodje's decision to join York City last week... 'I think Onome's advisors decided it was best for him to go to York and I don't think it was his real choice that he went there', he revealed. 'Because of his work permit situation, we could not be seen to have Onome under contract which means someone else could come in and do exactly the same to York as they did to us with a seven-day approach'. The Fleet boss hopes to sign a new striker by the end of this week and is also hopeful of landing a winger-cum-frontman in due course".

This is Weymouth states that "It appears Roy O'Brien's career at the Wessex Stadium is over. The defender has had no contact with the club since the end of last season. O'Brien said: 'I have not heard anything and I am quite disappointed about that. If they do not want me it would be nice of them to let me know but to be honest I am not too fussed now anyway as I have got a couple of other things lined up'".

STARS AT MOSS LANE

The event will be a football match on Sunday 30th September at 1pm at Moss Lane between a side which will include not only Glenn McGrath but also other cricketers including England's Darren Gough and Alec Stewart. The opposition will be a side featuring stars from Coronation Street and Hollyoaks. A number of the Aussie cricketers joined the Altrincham FC supporters' trust, STAR, when last in England and have kept in regular touch with Geoff and Suzanne from Down Under, where they follow the results of Alty. Glenn is seen, right, in his Alty shirt.

Geoff and Suzanne hope that there will be a bumper turnout for the game for these two excellent causes. From the Football Club's point of view it is vitally important that such fundraisers are fully supported - and there can be few more enjoyable ways of raising money for the Club and the Foundation than watching stars of sport and TV live on the Moss Lane pitch. Provisional prices for the game are £5 for adults, £2 for concessionaries and just £10 for a family of two adults and two children. So, please put the date in your diary.

Further details of the game and its participants will appear on the website in the near future.

INS AND OUTS

ALTY FC JUNIORS SEEK PLAYERS

OLD BOY COMMANDS FEE

FA YOUTH CUP

BSCP NEWS

Though yet to pay their debts (due this week), Crawley Town seem to have no money problems at the moment as they are "delighted to announce the signings of all action midfielder Tyrone Thompson and star striker Guy Madjo for next season... Thompson, 25, joins from Halifax Town and was the main man in their midfield last season. He was instrumental when he helped his team fight from a goal down to take all three points against the Reds in April. Thompson became a crowd favourite at the Shay thanks to his robust tackling and all action displays... Cameroon-born Madjo, 23, joins us in West Sussex from Stafford Rangers with whom he spent the 2006-07 campaign... The player claimed a clean sweep of all the individual awards given out by the supporters, players and management... Reds’ assistant boss Paul Raynor said: 'Tyrone is someone I worked with as a youngster at Sheffield United and have continued to watch his career since leaving United... In fact we tried to sign the boy at Boston United... As for Guy Madjo, he is an outstanding talent with frightening pace who has a real eye for a goal... The lad had numerous clubs after his signature and quite rightly he has taken his time to make sure he joins the right club at the right time. It is a nice bonus for us considering the work the Gaffer has put into this over the last few weeks and when you also consider he could have been much more financially rewarded had he gone elsewhere. He also brings competition for the likes of Magno Vieira, J-P Pittman, and with the Gaffer locked in talks we could possibly have another two strikers on-board by early next week... I can assure our supporters we have a number of exciting trialists also joining us when the lads report back on Monday. We will look at those trialists with the view to signing them should they show the attributes we are looking for'".

The BBC claims that "Halifax are set to sign former Fulham and Rotherham full-back Rob Scott. Scott has agreed a deal with the Shaymen after being released by Macclesfield at the end of last season. The 33-year-old will become the third new summer signing for Town boss Chris Wilder and will fill the gap left by Steve Haslam's move to Bury".

"Weymouth pair Stuart Beavon and Danny Phillips have both signed new one-year contracts, reports BBC Radio Solent. Striker Beavon, 23, scored seven goals last season after signing from Didcot Town in January, and had been attracting attention from other clubs. Midfielder Phillips had arrived on a non-contract basis in February".

BSCP newcomers "Histon have been boosted after the club secured a new three-year sponsorship deal with local businessman Tony Roach of JK Environmental. Roach, who will invest a six-figure sum into the club for the next three seasons, has also joined the board. 'The finance is obviously very welcome', Stutes chairman Gareth Baldwin told the club website. 'We will continue to build towards our target of having a stadium suitable for the Football League within two years'".

"AFC Telford United are set to sign former Shrewsbury and Sheffield United midfielder Steve Jagielka from Droylsden" reports the BBC

From This is Exeter we learn that "Julian Tagg insists Chris Todd's departure to Torquay United for £7,500 represents a good deal for Exeter City... In the last week City bosses have pocketed £25,000 in combined transfer fees from the sales of Lee Phillips and Todd... 'The negotiations were amiable', said Tagg. 'It is important that people know that £25,000 for two players who may or may not have fitted into our plans is exceptionally good business. I don't see many players in the Conference moving for money. If they go to higher league clubs then maybe, but it is not normal to command a transfer fee moving between clubs in the same league'... Tagg praised the impact City's director of football Steve Perryman... 'Steve (Perryman) has conducted the business and he has ensured that we have got considerably more than we may have expected. Without his involvement the figures would have been substantially less', Tagg said... 'Money is coming into the club and everyone is well aware that it is ring-fenced to be used on the playing side'".

The Salisbury Journal says that "Salisbury City have completed the signing of Woking goalkeeper James Bittner. The 25-year-old, who becomes the club's sixth full-time professional player, is no stranger to the Raymond McEnhill Stadium. He made 24 appearances for City as a youngster during the ill-fated 2001/02 season, which ended with the Whites being relegated to the Eastern Division of the Southern League, prompting the restructuring of the club and the appointment of Nick Holmes as manager. Meanwhile, Bittner's career took him to AFC Bournemouth, Exeter City (42 appearances) and Torquay United from where he joined Woking in December last year... Salisbury player-coach Tommy Widdrington...explained that Bittner's arrival would increase the level of competition for the number one shirt, currently held by Ryan Clarke, who turned pro with the club earlier this summer... 'Ryan had an outstanding season for us, but if the situation arises where we have to put someone else straight in, we have to do so with 100% confidence'... As well as the two goalkeepers, City's professional ranks include strikers Matt Tubbs and Robbie Matthews, midfielder Mike Fowler and recent signing Liam Feeney... Fixtures for City's debut season in the top-flight of non-league football are now expected to be announced on Tuesday".

Hot on the heels of signing Lewis Chalmers from Altrincham, Aldershot Town "Manager Gary Waddock has confirmed to 'The Shots' that he has completed the signing of 20 year old West Bromwich Albion striker Rob Elvins. Alvechurch born Elvins is 6 ft 2" and joined the Albion at the age of 12... Then-manager Bryan Robson promoted Rob to the first team squad with whom he trained regularly. Rob experienced first team football in a loan spell at Cheltenham Town and, more recently, York City where he featured for the Minstermen in a three month loan spell earlier this year".

LEWIS WELCOMED AT ALDERSHOT

Lewis Chalmers's last encounter with Aldershot in an Alty shirt was the final game of last season, when a 0-0 draw condemned Alty to a relegation place. Above, on the pitch at the end of that game, a prostrate Lewis Chalmers is comforted by an Aldershot player whilst, in the foreground, Alty boss Graham Heathcote exchanges views with the referee.

From Aldershot Town we read that "Manager Gary Waddock has confirmed that 21 year old Lewis Chalmers has become his first signing for the club. Chalmers progressed through the youth ranks at Moss Rose [i.e. Moss Lane, Altrincham not Moss Rose, Macclesfield] and, in total, he made 96 appearances for the Cheshire club scoring six goals. He also possesses England National Game experience too. A delighted manager said, 'Lewis is a young lad who is a current England international and he wants to push on and succeed and he shares the ambitions as me. Lewis has played against Aldershot before and the biggest point that he made to me was how he noticed the support that the team get and how vocal and encouraging they are getting behind the players and that is a great credit to the Aldershot fans. He wants to play in a central midfield role and that is where he has featured for England. It is an important position. We have Ricky Newman who is an experienced pro added with the youth of Lewis and he will learn from Ricky. I said to Lewis also that I played in that position as did Martin Kuhl and hopefully we will be able to develop him as a player also. I am hoping to be in a position to relay more information pretty soon and give the fans more good news. Negotiations have been positive and players want to come and play for Aldershot Town. I said at the Fans Forum that I wanted to sign players of a younger age with quality and the signing of Lewis is testament to that'. A full interview with Lewis Chalmers is available on Shotsline- 09066 555 855- calls cost 60p per minute".

OLD BOY

JUNIORS' LINKS

BLUE SQUARE CONFERENCE PREMIER NEWS

There is more bad news for Grays Athletic as they "have released Midfielder Derek Duncan, Derek signed for Grays Athletic on 25th May 2007 even though he was under contract to Leyton Orient until 30th June, the club would have registered the player on 1st July 2007, however, during the interim period his agent had touted him around various clubs and an offer from Wycombe Wanderers was made. Both the Club and Justin Edinburgh felt it would be in the best interests of Grays Athletic and Duncan to release him from his contract rather than have a player who is discontent with his current position which was evident in phone conversations".

Yorkpress states that "York City boss Billy McEwan has called on Setanta Sports to reveal how money will be distributed to Blue Square Premier clubs under the terms of their five-year agreement to televise matches. A figure of £2.8million was first banded about when the deal with the Irish broadcasters was announced last August. But that information has never been substantiated and details on how the money will be shared between the Blue Square Conference, formerly the Coinference, and its member clubs have not been forthcoming either... He said: 'You always get an official figure quoted in the Premier League's negotiations with Sky and information on how it will be distributed, but Setanta won't divulge what the deal is. We need to know. The club officials were not told at the AGM but I've got a meeting with Setanta next month and I will be wanting to find out then'. McEwan has also insisted he will resist any plans to fit him with a microphone during games. Setanta are hoping to loosely base their coverage on the manner in which NFL American football is televised. The Irish broadcasters are planning to issue both managers with microphones during their coverage of games. They are also hoping to screen pre-match team talks from the dressing-room and hold interviews with players immediately after their substitutions as part of its coverage. A bemused McEwan said of the plans which were revealed at the Conference annual meeting: 'They want to be different to Sky but they've got no chance with microphones on the manager. I will be voting against that. As a manager, you need your own privacy and I don't think the viewers will want to be listening to what's being shouted on the touchline'... The annual meeting also revealed provisional plans for the Setanta Shield, which will be contested between the 68 Blue Square Premier, North and South sides next season. City are due to enter the competition in the fourth round... Matches are due to be played on Tuesday nights although televised ties will be switched to Thursday evenings. Early indications also suggest that the competition will not be regionalised". However, the Football Conference reports that "Stalybridge Celtic have signed former York City defender James Dudgeon after his contract expired with the Minstermen. The 26-year-old moves to Bower Fold along with midfielder Terry Barwick, who joins from Northwich Victoria".

There is also an arrival at Northwich Victoria where "Manager Neil Redfern swooped to sign striker Jake Speight, 21 from Bury. Jake's former clubs have been Sheffield United and Scarborough. 'Jake has great pace which will give the attack a different dimension', said Neil".

From the Football Conference, we learn that "Halifax defender Adam Quinn has signed a new two-year deal at the Shay and is set to extend his stay further as the club's longest serving player. The 25-year-old England non-league international has started more than 150 games since joining from Sheffield Wednesday in 2002. 'A Conference club made a good offer and he's had an offer from a League team but I'm happy he is staying', boss Chris Wilder told the Halifax Courier".

More activity in Devon is reported by Torquay United who "have signed Chris Todd from Exeter City and Tony Bedeau has returned to the club after his spell with Walsall. Chris has signed a 3-year contract and Tony a 1-year deal".

At another south-coast club, Weymouth confirm that "player-boss Jason Tindall has secured the services of five more players. Nick Crittenden and Anton Robinson finished last season with the Terras and have committed themselves to the club for another year. Portuguese midfielder Sido Jombarti and Swindon Town pair Scott Doe and Jonathan Stewart have also penned 12-month contracts. The Robins' duo will complete their moves to the Wessex Stadium on July 1 after their current deals at the County Ground expire on Saturday. Speaking exclusively to Echosport from his hotel room in America, Tindall said: 'Critts did exceptionally well for me after I took over in January. He is a great player with incredible stamina and I am delighted that we have managed to keep hold of him. The way he finished last season was excellent. He scored three goals in five games at one stage and it was a pity for him that the campaign ended when it did. I expect more of the same from him next season. As for Anton, he also did very well. He has a fantastic physique and he offers me a lot in a few positions on the pitch'... Jombarti appeared several times for Weymouth Reserves last season and clearly impressed. Tindall said: 'He is very young and is a Patrick Vieira-type in terms of his physique and build. He is very combative and loves a tackle'.. Doe is a 19-year-old defender who can play at centre-back or right-back while Stewart is an 18-year-old keeper... He said: 'I am delighted with the signings we have made so far and there should be more later this week'".

The Burton Mail says that "Albion midfielder Chris Hall has joined Gainsborough Trinity in a surprise move. Hall, who missed most of last season because of a knee injury, had vowed to fight for a new contract with the Brewers... Albion manager Nigel Clough told Mail Sport: 'The last time we spoke to Chris he was still keen to come back and give it another go with us. But I think the uncertainty over his fitness has finally persuaded him to take his chance with a club where he is more likely to get regular football. Chris lives in Lincoln and playing for Gainsborough will mean a lot less travelling for him... It is doubtful whether he would have been able to join in training at the intense level we expect in the first two weeks of pre-season... I certainly wouldn't rule out the possibility of him having another part to play at some stage in the future'. Hall is the fifth member of last season's squad to leave the Pirelli Stadium this summer. Defenders Darren Tinson and Terry Henshaw have signed for Altrincham and Alfreton Town respectively, while midfielder Paul Carden made the switch to Accrington Stanley. Injury-plagued striker Steve Scoffham is still trying to find a new club after being released in May and Clough is still waiting to hear from midfielder Andy Ducros, who was offered only short-term deal

LEWIS OFF TO SHOTS

Lewis graduated to the first team after starting with Altrincham FC Youth team for whom he made his debut in the last match of 2002/03 season. He went on to captain that side on occasions. After being a regular for the Reserves in 2004-05, Lewis was an unused sub in the FA Trophy match at Gainsborough on 27 November 2004 and made his full first-team debut on 28 March 2005 against Hinckley. By the end of 2004-05 he had become a regular member of the first-team squad. Lewis injured his ankle in mid-September 2005 at Woodley Sports but returned to fitness and started several games in the Conference in 2005-06. Lewis is also a useful centre-back where his heading is a great asset, as it is at set pieces. He also possesses a prodigious long-throw. From early 2006 he figured mainly as a substitute before establishing himself as a regular starter when Val Owen was suspended in September and was rewarded with a call-up to the National Game XI squad in November 2006. His first-team appearances for Alty totalled 63(+33) and he scored 6 goals

LIGHTS ON

FRIENDLY OFF

FIXTURES

OLD BOYS

Chester City report that they "will be meeting with Tranmere Rovers midfielder Kevin Ellison and his advisers in order that personal terms can be agreed to bring the former City midfielder back to Chester City. Tranmere and the Blues have agreed a transfer fee for the player on Friday and personal terms are the next stage of the process to bring the 28 year old to City. City chairman Stephen Vaughan said 'The deal with Tranmere has been agreed, so we will now move on to the next stage of the process, which is agreeing a financial package with Kevin and his agent'.

NL Daily "Warrington Town have made their third signing of the close season after striker Neil Smith agreed to make the switch to Cantilever Park. Like defensive captures Liam Coyne [ex-Alty Youth] and Tony Dunne, Smith has previously played for Leigh RMI - the former club of Warrington's new assistant-manager Andy Nelson - at Conference level".

NW NEWS

BSCP NEWS

This is South Devon states that "Torquay United manager Paul Buckle still wants to sign players in all three departments before he feels that his fast-growing squad is ready to mount a Blue Square Premier promotion challenge. 'I'm looking for another centre-half - it's such a critical position - two wide players and another striker' says Buckle.The Devon soccer grapevine continues to link Buckle with a third return to his old club Exeter City for Grecians' centre-back Chris Todd, after the signings of former City players Martin Rice and Lee Phillips. And it wouldn't be a huge shock if former Gulls stalwart Tony Bedeau jumps at the chance of a return to Plainmoor, after a frustrating year at just-promoted Walsall. Bedeau, 28, has another year left on his contract at the Bescot Stadium, but the Saddlers would let him go... The arrival of striker Phillips brought Buckle's squad up to 13 players. 'Twenty would be great, but 18 would be nice to start with', said the Gulls' boss... Having seen goalkeeper Rice and the even more popular Phillips move to their local rivals, City supporters are not best pleased already... But Buckle insists: 'I am not interested in harming Exeter City Football Club. That's not what I'm about. And I'm not a good enough manager, nowhere near good enough yet, to be worrying about other teams'".

SCARBOROUGH RE-BORN

SEASON'S REVIEW

Above: Alty's biggest away win last season was at St Albans City. Here Alty and their fans celebrate the second goal, scored by Colin Little.

A little later than usual, not least due to the late change in Altrincham's league status which occurred after the end of the season, there is now a brief statistical review of 2006-07 season here. Although Alty finished in a relegation place, many of the indicators such as games won, goals scored, defensive record goal difference and match attendances showed improvements in 2006-07 compared with the previous season.

BLUE SQUARE CONFERENCE PREMIER NEWS

Farsley Celtic chairman Andy Firbank has told the Non-League Paper "We will not be going into the league to make the numbers up... We are now a big club in a small village in massive city. In Leeds there is Leeds United, who are two leagues above us and then there is Farsley Celtic in the Conference... We averaged 450 (spectators) in the league last season and , if we are true to form, we would expect about 1,000 next season. Four years ago we were being watched by crowds of 75 at a push, so that's quite a success!...Some of our players won't be available all the time because of their jobs, so we are looking at having a big squad. We are being inundated with players who want to play for us".

MOSS LANE IMPROVEMENTS

Altrincham FC is very grateful to be awarded help with the painting of the ground from the Dulux Decorator Centres' 'Colouring the Community Project'. Under this scheme, Altrincham FC will receive a generous free allocation of decorating materials and, just as importantly, they receive the services of staff from the Dulux Decorator Centre headquarters in West Timperley, Altrincham for the day.

So, on Friday, a team from Dulux Decorator Centres will be on hand at Moss Lane to carry out painting and decorating work. On the list of jobs is decorating the Gill Oates Sponsors' Lounge as well as work on areas which may include the dressing rooms, referees' room, turnstiles, press boxes, dug outs and gates. They have kindly offered to provide lunch, free of charge, to any Altrincham FC volunteers who can spare the time to come and help. So, if you have just finished exams or are otherwise free on Friday (29th) please come along to Moss Lane. If you need more details, please contact the club on 928-1045.

Other developments to the fabric of Moss Lane include work on installing the new floodlights, which is expected to start soon, and the ladies toilets in the bar are to be upgraded during close season with a further toilet being added.

NEWS OF SCOTTY

YOUTH GAMES

Youth team training starts on Sunday 1 July and continues every Tuesday and Thursday thereafter.

OLD BOYS

ON THIS DAY

INS AND OUTS? The Pink has confirmed (24/6/00) that Mark Ward is pursuing Leigh RMI's right-winger, Steve Jones who was the Player of the Year at Hilton Park last season. Ward hopes to pair Jones with Kevin Ellison but any move awaits the return from holiday of the Leigh Chairman. As reported below, Ward is also still pursuing Lancaster's Jamie Udall, but he faces competition from Morecambe and others. However, Ward has acquired an Everton reserve striker, Mark Quayle, on pre-season trial. Leigh's reserve goalkeeper, Mark O'Connor is also a possible arrival at Moss Lane as his present employers are seeking to sign Bamber Bridge's keeper, Craig Dootson. Mick Morrell has signed for Leigh and Chris Timons is expected to do so, to join ex-Alty midfielder, Ged Kielty. Whilst Kevin Ellison remains at Alty despite some interest from Chester City, Northwich Vics have made an approach for centre-back Gary Talbot. Surprisingly, Keith Russell has not jumped at the offer from Hednesford to sign him and still has not yet agreed terms with the Pitmen. North-West Trains side Salford City are hoping to sign two ex-Alty players, Darren Lyons and Neill Hardy both of whom have been released by Morecambe in the last few months, although it is surprising, particularly in Hardy's case, that the players in question are prepared to drop several leagues. Southport have made a player-exchange offer for Danny Adams, but this has been rebuffed.

ALTY CHASE SERTORI? According to the NLP, Altrincham are one of the clubs pursuing Cheltenham Town's released utility man, Mark Sertori. However, Nuneaton Borough are believed to have made a bid for him. Manchester-born Mark, aged 33, formerly played League football for Stockport, Wrexham, Lincoln and Bury. The same paper also reports on Alty's link to a proposed new stadium in Stretford and records the signing of Jeremy Illingworth, with Bernard Taylor saying, "He is a box-to-box player, a strong boy. But he has played upfront, in midfield and even as a sweeper. We will make good use of him". Elsewhere in the paper Kevin Ellison is described as "the pick of the bunch" in an article on future stars. Mark Harris describes Kevin as "a lovely lad. You can never stand in a player's way once they want to progress and we were delighted to be able to facilitate that for him". Ex-Alty man Tony Hemmings has cost Chester City £3,500. The payment, to Ilkeston Town, had been delayed by a wrangle after Hemmings left Chester for Carlisle. Hemmings had joined Ilkeston after being released from Moss Lane.

As Altrincham prepare for 2003/04, above is a picture of the squad as it warmed-up before the first pre-season game of last season, on 17 July 2002 against Tranmere Rovers. Those seen above are: Mike Turner, Peter Mellor, Derek Ward, Rod Thornley, Chris Adams, Gary Scott, Neil Ryan, Danny Frost, Ian Craney, Stephen Rose, Gary Talbot, Mark Maddox, Andy McDonald and Danny Murphy. Other unpictured participants in that game, who are not now playing for Alty, include Eric Nixon, who kept goal for the Robins, Ryan Hevicon and Stuart Locke.

BSCP NEWS

From Aldershot Town we read that "[Gary Waddock] is hoping to operate on a squad of 18 players but added that although the current squad has 12 players Ryan Scott will not be available at the start of the new campaign due to his broken leg sustained [in the last match of last season] at Altrincham. He is hoping for positive news next week".

The BBC is promoting a new non-league internet radio show for 2007-08. It describes it as a "brand new football show dedicated to Non League Football. You will be able to hear the show every Monday night from 9pm. With the biggest guests in Non League football every week, plus a look at your club, the latest gossip and players to look out for, the Non League show will be THE place for fans of everyone from Chelmsford City to Leamington FC. But it won't be anything without you, we need your stories, your fans of the week and more importantly we need you to pick up the phone, log-on and get in touch. From August 2007 you'll be able to call the show live on 020 7 22 4 2000, text 07786 200 949 and email nonleague@bbc.co.uk every Monday from 9pm, but you can get in touch before then. Send us a guide to your club, a fan of the week, or even preview the coming season, just email nonleague@bbc.co.uk See you in August".

OPPONENTS' NAME CHANGE

COMINGS & GOINGS

OLD BOYS

At Ashton United "Great news for Robins fans is the return of an old favourite in the shape of experienced campaigner Chris Adams (right). ‘Ace’ left Ashton for a second spell at Altrincham in 2001 and has been a consistent performer at Moss Lane in Conference North & Conference National for much of that period. Danny's other signing also featured briefly for him briefly at Trafford last season as he recovered from injury. Wes Wilkinson is the former Nantwich flyer who earned himself a pro contract with Oldham Athletic and has also featured with Leigh RMI after starting his career with Altrincham's youth team".

Meanwhile, news of three ex-Altrincham players comes from Radcliffe Borough "have signed and agreed to re-sign the following players... Scott Wilson... [and] Lee Hendley... [But] Chris Downey has moved to Ashton United".

Marine report that Welsh club, The "New Saints have beaten several clubs to capture the signature of striker Ronnie 'The Rocket' Morgan, who was placed on the transfer list at his own request last week by Cammell Laird... Saints' boss [and ex-Alty striker] Ken McKenna has spent three years tracking the 26-year-old, who has scored an amazing 180 goals in the four years since Lairds left the West Cheshire League... 'I have always felt Ronnie was capable of playing at a higher level and once he decided to leave Lairds I just had to go for him', said McKenna, who believes he can continue to score goals in the Welsh Premier". TNS are one of Alty's pre-season opponents so Robins' fans will have a chance to see the new signing.

BSCP NEWS

"Kidderminster Harriers manager Mark Yates has signed defender Paul Bignot from Crewe Alexandra. The 21-year-old came through Crewe's youth system and had a brief loan spell at Aggborough last season. 'He's an exceptional defender and I'm sure he'll be a great asset for us', Yates told the club's website". The BBC also reports that "Histon boss Steve Fallon has made left-back Gareth Gwillim his seventh new signing of the summer. Gwillim, 24, joins from Bishops Stortford...''"He is a player who offers everything as a full-back and we feel we can now look forward to the new season with a highly competitive squad'" said Fallon.

From The Cambridge Evening News we hear that "David Bridges is close to a move to a Blue Square Conference outfit following the end of his second spell with Cambridge United. The 24-year-old midfielder, who came through the youth ranks at the Abbey, said he was considering offers from four clubs and hoped to put pen to paper with one of them before pre-season training starts next month. Bridges, who left United in 2004 before returning the following year after spells with top Latvian side Riga and Histon, said he would not comment on those chasing his signature after a planned move fell through following his release by Jimmy Quinn. He said: 'People move on and that's what I've got to do. I've got a house now and bills to pay, so it's got to be what's financially the best option for me. We've spoken to a few clubs and I think I'll have something sorted out come July 2. There are one or two clubs that are close by and a couple more where I wouldn't necessarily have to relocate, but I'd have to travel far'".

NW NEWS

ALTY SIGN CHRIS LANE

WORKING PARTIES

ORDER YOUR COPY NOW

The Cherry Red Non-League Newsdesk Annual 2007 is scheduled to be published on Monday July 30th. This year's Annual is bigger and better ­ yet still the same price! This is the eighth edition of a summer best seller, now widely regarded as the definitive pre-season guide to non-League football. With the national league system rapidly evolving since the start of the revolutionary shake-up of 2004, this Annual faithfully records all the drama of an eventful 12 months. To cater for this and other expansions in coverage, the Annual is now 320 pages - an increase of 16 pages from last year for no extra cost... The Annual carries exhaustive statistical details from 2006-07, and new season directories for over 70 leagues including an expansion of the coverage of Welsh competitions, and tables from many other leagues. In all around 500 tables are included and over 9,000 teams are covered. All these teams are fully indexed. Also listed are round-by-round results and attendances of FA Cup, Trophy and Vase ties and details of their Welsh equivalents, and the results of all county senior, and many regional, cup finals. All this gen is crammed into a handily sized 320 page A5 book, priced just £9.95. And, better still, postage & packing is free. Ordering details here.

BSCP NEWS

The BBC confirms that "England non-league international defender Kevin Nicholson has joined Torquay United after turning down a new contract offer at Forest Green Rovers. Nicholson, who had also been linked with a move to Barnet, had spent 12 months at Forest Green and started 44 league games last season. The left-back had previous spells with Notts County and Scarborough. Nicholson, 26, is the seventh summer signing as boss Paul Buckle rebuilds for life in non-league football".

At another ex-League club, the Cambridge Evening News says that "Adam Davies will be ready for action when Cambridge United return to pre-season training next month after almost a year out following an horrific knee injury. The 20-year-old defender, below, tore his anterior cruciate ligaments in the 2-0 defeat at Dagenham & Redbridge last August... It was the second major blow to Davies' fledgling career - he was knocked out and suffered a fit following a head injury in the 2-0 home win over Exeter in April last year. But physio Greg Reid believed the Wales under-21 international had coped remarkably well... He said: 'It's been a tough old time for Adam, but he has done extremely well and shown a heck of a lot of mental strength and toughness. I think ultimately he'll be better for having gone through this when he gets back to playing again. With both Adam and Stephen Smith, who had a knee operation after the season finished... They've gone on holiday and as long as neither of them falls down a flight of stairs, they should be fine for the start of pre-season'. Reid added Courtney Pitt would also be fit for United's return after recovering from a groin operation".

"Steve Fallon has promised all his Histon players - new and old - a clean slate ahead of their return to pre-season training tonight at the Glass World Stadium. It is just eight weeks since the Stutes were presented with the Conference South title... But Histon boss Fallon, chairman Gareth Baldwin and first-team coach John Beck have worked round the clock, following yet another history-making campaign for the village club, to secure the capture of six new signings. And tonight Craig Pope, Danny Naisbitt, Mark Osborn, Patrick Ada, Dean Bradshaw and Cliff Akurang, who have all chosen to ply their trade with Histon, will get to train with their new team-mates for the first time. The Stutes squad will be weighed and measured before going into a light training session to ease them back into things ahead of being put through their paces at a heavier session when the real work begins next Tuesday night... The boss said: "We are desperate to get them all back and just get started ready for the new season. We've got quite a few new additions and they need to get to know everyone and learn how we play, and we need to get to know them, too... Every single player is starting from fresh. They know it is going to be a fight to earn a place in the team'".

From This is Exeter we learn that "Torquay United have tabled bids to take Exeter City skipper Chris Todd and striker Lee Phillips to Plainmoor. The Gulls, managed by former Exeter assistant manager Paul Buckle, have made firm bids for both contracted players... 'I have made bids for Lee Phillips and for Chris Todd', said Buckle, who took over at Plainmoor last month. 'I don't know what the outcome will be. I made the bids at the end of last week and negotiations are ongoing... Paul Tisdale and I respect each other and things will be done correctly. The fact that it is Paul Buckle and Torquay United down the road will be a big deal for some people but not for us. I am the manager of Torquay and I am looking to put a squad together and they are two good players'. Both players have a year remaining on their City contracts and while the move for Phillips comes as little surprise after weeks of speculation - the suggestion of Todd leaving will come as more of a shock to City fans. The Welsh defender has been at St James's Park since 2003 and was made club captain at the start of last season... The centre back admitted he could be tempted by the right offer. He said: 'This is the time of the year where clubs start making decisions on who they are going to sign for next season. But until I have got something in front of me I will take it as it comes. I am still an Exeter City player until I hear any different. I am letting my agent deal with it and he will let me know what is going on'. Phillips is understood to be keen on linking up with Buckle for the third time in his career. He and Buckle worked together at Weymouth... Since taking charge at Plainmoor Buckle has signed former City keeper Martin Rice, Paul Hinshelwood from Brighton, Elliot Benyon from Bristol City and Chris Hargreaves from Oxford United. Lee Mansell and Chris Robertson have been retained. Meanwhile, Tisdale's quest to replace Buckle [as assistant boss at Exeter] continues with City's sporting director Julian Tagg admitting several approaches have already been made".

The Halifax Courier states that "Tyrone Thompson is a potential target for Town's rivals York City. The midfielder became a free agent earlier this month when he failed to respond to the Shaymen's offer of a new contract. And Halifax revealed that the 26-year-old had also declined a new deal when he was offered one in January. City boss Billy McEwan has been busy in the transfer market already this summer... He has already brought in Chris Beardsley from Rushden & Diamonds, Gravesend & Northfleet striker Onome Sodje and former Torquay United left-back Mark Robinson. And he is set to sign Paul Brayson and former Shayman Stuart Elliot from Northwich Victoria. Now he has declared an interest in Thompson who has also been linked with a potential move to Rushden & Diamonds".

Last season's hard times seem to be over on the South Coast. "Former Weymouth chairman Martyn Harrison has made a statement regarding his departure from the Wessex Stadium" says This is Weymouth. "The hotelier has sold his company's majority shareholding in the Terras to Mel Bush and has cleared the club's debts. He said: 'I felt it was incumbent on me to ensure the loans and debts were cleared to give the new owner every possibility of success in the future... I want to thank the staff, players, supporters and sponsors who have been here for the club through thick and thin especially over these past few exciting years". Meanwhile "Former Southampton trainee Kyle Critchell has become Weymouth manager Jason Tindall's first pre-season signing. He penned a two-year deal at a Press conference to announce new owner Mel Bush's arrival. Chief executive Gary Calder said: 'Jason is away in America at the moment but I am in constant contact with him and the players we want to sign and we hope to have some more news over the next few days... We will be searching everywhere for players and that includes Europe. Our net for players will be very big but it is also important that the ones we get in have the right mentality'... Critchell, who turned away interest from Torquay United, Dagenham & Redbridge, Brentford, Shrewsbury Town and Colchester United, was born in Weymouth... He said: 'It is brilliant to be here. One of the main reasons I have come back to Weymouth is because my sister is ill but the other thing is that there is huge potential at the club'".

NAME CHANGE

OLD BOY

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BLUE SQUARE CONFERENCE PREMIER (BSCP) NEWS

Hereford's Bullsnews says that "Andy Ferrell has signed a one year deal at Kidderminster Harriers, following his release from the Bulls.The competitive midfielder fell out of favour at Edgar Street, and joined the Harriers on loan in March but played just once due to injury... Manager Mark Yates told their official site: 'Andy is a player I admire. We managed to get him on-loan last season but unfortunately he pulled a stomach muscle early on - but even with his injury, his attitude around the place was great. That convinced me even more that he was the kind of player I want and he'll bring experience and ability to the squad'". Meanwhile, "Former Bull, Chris Hargreaves has joined Torquay United for their first ever Conference campaign. The 35 year old has played over 500 games in his career, including over 100 at Edgar Street. He is the fourth signing at Plainmoor since their relegation, three of which are under 21".

"Dagenham & Redbridge boss John Still has raided Blue Square Premier club Ebbsfleet United to clinch the signature of defender Ross Smith. Smith left Stonebridge Road at the end of last season after failing to agree a new contract with Liam Daish and has now penned a one-year deal with the Daggers. The 26-year-old Canadian makes the switch to Victoria Road having spent the past two years playing for Ebbsfleet in the Conference... The left-sided defender was released in the summer as manager Liam Daish said that he couldn't wait any longer for the player to commit his future to the club. Daish had been trying to negotiate a new deal with Smith since the beginning of February, although the player was delaying talks as he had his heart set on making a career for himself in the Football League" says the Football Conference.

From Confguide we learn that "York City manager Billy McEwan is poised to make two more new signings... Former Newcastle United duo Paul Brayson and Stuart Elliot have verbally agreed deals with the Minstermen and McEwan is just waiting on the duo to return from their respective holidays. Striker Brayson had a trial at KitKat Crescent in the summer of 2004 but failed to earn a contract from then manager Chris Brass. The 29-year-old has since been a regular scorer for Northwich Victoria and finished as their leading marksman last season with 12 goals. Brayson previously fired the club to an immediate return to the Nationwide Conference after claiming 32 goals in 51 appearances in Conference North. Vics' skipper and midfielder Elliott (29) similarly began his career at St James's Park, and has also represented Plymouth Argyle, Darlington, Carlisle United and Exeter City. 'They are coming into the club', McEwan told The Press. 'It's just a matter of rubberstamping their moves and we are waiting for them to return from holiday to sign their contracts'. McEwan has also admitted that he could make a move for Tyrone Thompson after the free agent turned down a deal at Halifax Town... York City have completed their third signing inside the last twenty-four hours with the capture of former Mansfield Town striker Chris Beardsley. The 23-year-old frontman started his career as a trainee at Mansfield five years ago, before having brief spells at Doncaster Rovers and Kidderminster Harriers... [He] signed an eighteen-month contract with Rushden & Diamonds in January 2007 following a successful loan period".

"Ebbsfleet have made their second summer signing with the capture of former Woking midfielder Neil Barrett. Manager Liam Daish is a keen admirer of the 25-year-old and has brought him to Stonebridge Road on a free 'Neil made a big impact during his time at Woking', Daish told the club's official website. 'Glenn Cockerill rated him very highly, and Frank Gray wanted him to go back for pre-season this summer, so we have done well to bring him to the club. He will bring a physical presence to our midfield and is capable of getting his name on the scoresheet'" states Confguide

In Devon, NL Daily confirms that "Paul Buckle, manager of Torquay United, has added to his new-look squad with the signings of experienced midfielder Chris Hargreaves and defender Chris Robertson. Robertson, 21, has agreed a permanent deal with the Gulls after finishing last season at Plainmoor on loan from Sheffield United. Ex-Plymouth, Northampton and Hull midfielder Hargreaves (pictured) joins Torquay after leaving league rivals Oxford United at the end of last season".

"Combative midfielder Josh Simpson has rejoined Blue Square South club Cambridge City following a year with Premier neighbours United. Simpson was one of three young players – Michael Gash and Robbie Simpson were the others - who left Milton Road for the Abbey a year ago" says NL Daily.

In another university city, "Oxford United are set to receive a boost when Luke Foster signs a new contract with the club this week. The former Sheffield Wednesday and Lincoln City player, who impressed greatly in a short spell with United at the end of last season, will put pen-to-paper on a two-year deal. U's boss Jim Smith... said: 'The lad's agreed the contract. He was due to do it on Tuesday, but he broke down en route!'. The 21-year-old defender had been a revelation at the Kassam Stadium after breaking into the side following his move in March from Stalybridge Celtic... But he then missed the crunch play-off semi final games against Exeter City after injuring his leg badly in the final league game at York City. X-rays revealed he had two undisplaced fractures in his fibula and he would also have missed the play-off final, had United won through to Wembley. The injury is expected to heal fully by next season and Smith said he was pleased with the capture... The Bald Eagle is understood to have concluded two or three other deals, with new signings likely to be announced later this month... 'There's plenty that's happened, but we don't want to release it yet', he said. 'We're hoping in the next few weeks to be able to do so'", he told the Oxford Mail.

"John Hulse, manager of Principality Welsh Premier club Rhyl, has signed another midfielder with English Pyramid experience from east Manchester-based Nationwide North champions Droyslden. Jimmy Kelly, 34, will renew acquaintance with two other ex-Bloods at Belle Vue in striker and recently-appointed club coach Dave Cameron and recent acquisition Carl Ruffer."

From This is Weymouth comes confirmation that "Pop promoter Mel Bush is set to be confirmed as the new owner of Weymouth Football Club... Bush, who is manager Jason Tindall's father-in-law, agreed an offer with chairman Martyn Harrison last week and over the weekend was just waiting for the hotelier to put pen-to-paper. Harrison is believed to have signed off the deal yesterday. Speaking exclusively to Echosport from his hotel room in America, Tindall said: 'I have always said that I am not too bothered who takes over as long as they have the best interests of the team and the club at heart and are not just out to use the club for their own financial gain. Out of all the people who have shown an interest in taking over the club I know, Mel Bush is the best person for it. You do not achieve what he has achieved and get the respect he has got in his industry by being a clown. He is a good businessman, I have had a long chat with him and he seems very positive about giving Weymouth Football Club long-term stability and success for the whole town'. The past month has been very frustrating for Tindall who until now has not been able to offer any contracts to last season's players or draft in any new acquisitions. He added: "I have been losing possible new signings who I wanted to bring in by the day... but they could not wait forever. Over the past couple of weeks I have lost five players who were prepared to come to Weymouth, three of which have now signed for League clubs and a couple of others who have signed for Blue Square Premier clubs which is a shame. However, there are still three or four other very good players who I believe can come in and do well for us. And I am hoping to announce a couple of new signings over the next few days. As for the players who ended last season with us, they have all said they want to stay here and they already know what I am about and hopefully we can sign them on soon... There is now some light at the end of the tunnel'".

Scarborough may have gine under but life goes on at Crawley where the Argus says that "Crawley Town boss Steve Evans insists he is not involved with the club's finances. Evans is working with a restricted budget after it was reduced to allow Reds to pay off their long-standing debts... He confirmed four new signings at a fans' forum on Monday, three of whom were playing in the Football League last season, and is in negotiations with more players. But it has led to speculation as to how Crawley can afford to sign big names after two seasons of financial problems. There has been speculation that a big factor in Evans' appointment was that he would bring in investment. But Evans said: 'I do not come in with investment. I work with the budgets I'm given. I have not been paid for four months so I have no money to give. Nor does my family. My father died when he was 56, my brother drives a bus in Glasgow and my other brother works for British Rail. I have asked for assurances about the budgets and I am happy with what I have got to work with'. Co-owner Chas Majeed insists the club's finances are stable. He admits he and his brother Azwar have learnt some harsh lessons during two traumatic years in charge but believes they are now getting it right. Representatives from the Majeed's company, SA Group, were due to meet with administrators yesterday to thrash out the final re-payment of their £500,000 debts. Majeed said:'We admit we did not know about how to run a football club but that is in the past and we have learnt how to do it now. We know what budget to give and what we can and can't do. We have paid a lot of money to keep the club going. My brother has mortgaged his house and we now want supporters to get behind us'. Evans also revealed details about his infamous court case during his time at Boston and has urged fans not to hold it against him. He was suspended from football for 20 months in 2002 and given a one-year suspended prison sentence last year after pleading guilty to tax offences. He said: 'I took the case to the top QC in the country and he said that I was not guilty and I should fight it... I did not have a choice in the matter, I had to think about my family so I pleaded guilty'... 'We are also in discussions with a Premiership team about them coming here in the week of August 4 and another Championship club'".

The Burton Mail says that "Albion will have to widen their search for a midfield player after missing out on Notts County's Dan Martin... as a possible replacement for Paul Carden... Martin was due to join the Brewers for a pre-season trial, but has been snapped up by Mansfield Town... Clough has bolstered his midfield department by signing Irishman John McGrath from relegated neighbours Tamworth. But Carden's unexpected departure has left a hole in Albion's squad.. He signed for Accrington after deciding he needed a club nearer to his Liverpool home for family reasons. With Andy Ducros unlikely to accept Clough's offer of a short-term deal, the Brewers boss will almost certainly try to draft in a midfield recruit when Albion report back for training next month. Meanwhile, Albion are still awaiting news of the fate of goalkeeper Kevin Poole. Despite the fact he will celebrate his 44th birthday next season, the former Premiership veteran remains Clough's preferred choice for the keeper's jersey next season... However, Poole - an academy coach with Birmingham City last season - is awaiting the outcome of his application for a full-time post with another Premiership club... One possibility is that he will make a renewed attempt to secure the services of Crewe Alexandra's Stuart Tomlinson".

SEADOGS GO UNDER

A statement from Scarborough read: 'While it is sad to see the demise of a club with a proud history of 128 years, the club's finances have for a number of years been in a very poor state and the company has been in and out of various insolvency proceedings. Recently the club has been trying to sell the McCain Stadium for development to fund a move to an out of town purpose built stadium. However, this move has been fraught with difficulties. Despite the support of Scarborough Borough Council and the company's creditors, the club simply ran out of time. The company's total debt amounts to £2.5m. Rob Sadler and Mike Saville of Begbies Traynor have been appointed joint liquidators of the company and will now be liaising with Council to agree the disposal of the stadium in order to achieve the best return to the creditors. Whilst it is disappointing to see any club go out of business, the making of the winding-up order at this time allows the newly constituted supporters' trust an opportunity to reform and apply for membership of the North East Counties League. Hopefully this will ensure football for Scarborough in the coming season'".

The official website at Scarborough says, "The Scarborough Football Club Limited has today (20/06/2007) been wound up at the High Court of Justice in Leeds. This web site remains in private ownership, and as such will remain online. However, no further press releases will be issued via this site until such a time as a new club has been formed. The site owner understands that discussions are ongoing between two interested parties - former Chairman Ian Scobbie and fans organisation The Seadog Trust. In the interests of remaining neutral, the decision has been taken not to allow any further statements from either party to be published on this site. Both parties are urged to discuss the best way forward for a football club in Scarborough, and ensure that only one application put forward to both the North Riding FA and Northern Counties East League. R.I.P. Scarborough Football Club 1879-2007".

The Scarborough Evening News says that "Scarborough Football Club have folded after a judge ordered its parent company to be wound up... The decision comes despite moves by Boro chairman Ian Scobbie to hammer out a deal to clear the debts by selling the McCain Stadium for development and moving to a new ground. Judge Greenwood last granted the club a seven day adjournment in the winding proceedings to secure the deal, but said today he could not give the club any more time. He said: 'On every occasion, hopes have been raised and rescue plans have been put in place. These rescue attempts have failed. The time has come, regrettably for the football club, for me to make a decision. The various rescue attempts have failed and I wind Scarborough Football Club up... There is nothing in my view to suggest that a fourth CVA would be approved, or even successful'... Two applications have been made for a newly formed Scarborough football team to play next season in the Northern Counties East League, three divisions lower than the Unibond. One is for 'Scarborough Athletic', which has been formed by the supporter-led Seadogs Trust. The other is for 'AFC Scarborough', which has been set up by Mr Scobbie. League bosses have said they will only accept one application from a Scarborough club - and if both apply, neither will be given a place. The two clubs have until Sunday to provide a united application and are meeting to discuss the issue tomorrow".

It was Scarborough's financial situation which led to Altrincham's reprieve from relegation after the points deduction of 2005-06. All at Moss Lane will be sorry to see the demise of a club against whom Altrincham have a long history of rivalry, going back to Northern Premier League days.

PUT YOUR SHIRT ON ALTY

Prices for Altrincham FC replica shirts this season will be £33 for adults and £26 for children's sizes. Please contact the club by phone (928-1045) or visit the E-bay shop or send an e-mail to place an order.

BLUE SQUARE PREMIER NEWS

The Cambridge Evening News states that "Alan Lewer has ruled out the possibility of bringing Dean Moxey to Cambridge United. The Exeter player, who can play at left-back or left midfield, had talks with the United No 2 over a move to the Abbey. Lewer is believed to have become interested in Moxey while assistant to John Hollins at Crawley last season after good reports from player Scott Hiley, a former Exeter player-coach. A compensation fee required by the Grecians if their former youth product moves on could have been a stumbling block for United anyway. But Lewer said.. as they have left-backs Stephen Reed and Jordan Collins, and winger Courtney Pitt already on the books, ' There's no chance of Dean coming here at the moment because we've got those positions filled,' said Lewer, who hoped United would be able to make another new signing this week with a striker, a keeper and possibly another midfielder among the targets. Moxey's future with the Grecians remains unclear after the out-of-contract defender went on holiday last week without being able to agree a new deal at St James' Park. But he has been given the assurances he wanted from Exeter boss Paul Tisdale that the Nationwide Conference play-off losers would not be signing another left-back after the departure of Billy Jones to Crewe for £50,000... Tisdale said: "Dean has to decide whether he wants that challenge or whether he wants to go elsewhere'".

The Halifax Courier reports that "Steve Haslam has made a shock U-turn by quitting Halifax Town for League One Bury. And Shay boss Chris Wilder is powerless to prevent the move which comes less than a month after the 27-year-old had indicated he was ready to sign a new contract with Town. 'Steve signed an acceptance form and returned it to us', said Wilder. 'Then I received a phone call saying that Bury had contacted him and he wanted to go and speak to them. If people give me their word I expect them to stick to it, so it's disappointing but there is nothing I can do about it... I am not in a position where I can force a player to stop with the club. He is over 24 and not under contract after the end of the month'. Haslam made 92 Conference starts for the Shaymen after being released by Sheffield Wednesday in the summer of 2004... 'Steve has been a good lad to work with and has done all right for us', said Wilder. 'But there are players out there and I am sure we will replace him. We also have Ryan Toulson who I am expecting to kick on next season. I understand that the supporters want to know who we are signing and want to see players coming in', he said. 'But they will have to be a little patient... realistically, we are still not in a position where all of a sudden we can go and sign anyone'".

This is South Devon says that "New Torquay United boss Paul Buckle is ready to go back to his old club Exeter City in an effort to prise away more of the Grecians' top stars...Buckle would not comment specifically on his latest targets, but he has already signed goalkeeper Martin Rice from City and I understand that he is in talks with Exeter about at least one and possibly two more players. It would be no great surprise if one turns out to be City striker Lee Phillips, who has been linked with a move to Plainmoor already. Phillips, 26, has a year of his current contract left at Exeter... Buckle is also busy on several other fronts. He expects to hear within the next 24 hours whether young centre-half Chris Robertson will accept the terms offered to him and re-sign for the Gulls... Former Barnet, Peterborough and Oldham defender Mark Arber, 29, is another target. He finished last season on loan at Conference champions Dagenham & Redbridge. Buckle has had exploratory talks with two free agent midfielders - veteran ex-Hull, WBA, Hereford, Plymouth, Northampton, Brentford and Oxford man Chris Hargreaves, 35, and former Sheffield United, Huddersfield, Scarborough and Halifax midfielder Tyrone Thompson, 26. The Gulls' boss has admitted his interest in former Aldershot striker Roscoe D'Sane, who scored 21 goals for Ryman League Premier AFC Wimbledon last season. United are also being linked with 20-year-old Darren Mullings, a midfielder just released by Buckle's old Plainmoor teammate Paul Trollope at Bristol Rovers... Before the weekend United signed young ex-Bristol City striker Elliott Benyon and 19-year-old right-back Paul Hinshelwood from Brighton & Hove Albion, bringing his signed-up squad to nine players. A left-back is now high on Buckle's to-do list, and he is close to filling that gap too. Some Gulls fans have been speculating on the possibility of long-serving ex-United striker Tony Bedeau returning after an ill-fated year at Walsall... And Mark Robinson, the former Hartlepool and Stockport left-back who played the second half of last season for Torquay, has just signed for Blue Square Premier rivals York City. Robinson hails from Teesside and he had been looking for a move closer to home".

VICS' NEW BOSS

'From the start Neil impressed us with both his professionalism and experience' says Connett, 'And that impression was reinforced the more we spoke to him. We believe he's just the kind of coach that Vics need at this stage of the team's development, with the emphasis on Premier League -style ball possession. We want to get away from the kind of knock and run tactics that we've seen in the past. We also need to get into the play-offs of the Blue Square Premier. Neil is the man who is going to do it for us on both counts'. At the Victoria Stadium, Neil will be guided by John Bond.

'It's going to be an interesting combination and effective one too', says Connett, 'With Neil giving the players a level of tactical guidance that the've never before known at the Club and John overseeing the whole process. It's great news for both the team and the fans and something I believe will herald a whole new era of success for the Club'".

Redfearn also has non-league managerial experience with Scarborough in 2005-06.

GOAL VALUE

OLD BOYS

BLUE SQUARE PREMIER NEWS

This is Weymouth claims that "Pop promoter Mel Bush is on the brink of completing a takeover deal for Weymouth Football Club after former chairman Ian Ridley withdrew his offer. Bush, who is the father-in-law of Terras' boss Jason Tindall, has been in intense negotiations with the club's current owner Martyn Harrison over the past week and is now just waiting for the hotelier to put pen to paper. Mr Bush said today: 'It is down to Martyn now. Everything is in place and it is just waiting for him to sign'... Mr Bush, who revealed details of his bid on the Terras' supporters' forum, added: 'The only reason I did that was because there were so many false statements and mistruths being said and I wanted to let everyone know that an offer is there... I do not know what the hold-up is but what I do know is that for the sake of the club it needs to be sorted. There are a lot of concerned people in Weymouth and my concerns are the same... My intentions are to fully establish Weymouth Football Club and make it a club that reflects well on the town. With the Olympics coming and all the interest Weymouth is generating and the fact property prices are going up, the whole atmosphere proves that pending success is on the way'. Under Bush's deal the club will retain all its assets, including the ownership of the Wessex Stadium which at one point was very much in doubt... It is understood that Jason Tindall is on red alert to return from a break in America once the deal is finalised. Mr Tindall, has so far been unable to sign any of his players for the forthcoming campaign and with pre-season training scheduled to start early next month time is clearly against him".

Chris Porter, who kept goal for York City through the 2005-06 season, has joined Bishop Auckland. Meanwhile, the BBC says that "York City boss Billy McEwan is set to make Northwich striker Paul Brayson, 29, his first summer signing". However, The Northwich Guardian reports that "Vics have delayed the naming of their new boss to replace Steve Burr. The club were scheduled to make an announcement this morning, but now say this will be delayed until tomorrow morning, Tuesday".

From This is Exeter we read that "Former City striker Christian Roberts is set for a return to St James's Park after the Grecians announced they will be playing his current club, Swindon Town, in pre-season.The lightning-quick Welshman scored 18 goals for Exeter in two seasons with the club before moving to Bristol City in 2002. Swindon will visit St James's Park on August 4 (3pm) - the the club's ninth and final pre-season fixture". Also, "Ask anyone at Exeter City about George Friend and they will tell you he has a bright future. The 19-year-old is about to start the second year of his first professional contract with the club and it could just be the biggest year of his life. A natural athlete with a sweet left foot, Friend is hoping to fill the void created by the departure of Billy Jones to Crewe Alexandra. Manager Paul Tisdale gave him the perfect incentive to return for pre-season training with a spring in his step by revealing in Echo Sport on Saturday that he does not plan to sign a new left-back. That creates a straight race for the position between Friend and fellow City youth product Dean Moxey".

This is Glos says that "Jimmy Harvey has hit out at Barnet manager Paul Fairclough over his attempts to prise full-back Kevin Nicholson away from Forest Green. Nicholson has had talks with Barnet, but Harvey is unhappy that Fairclough may have used his position as manager of the England semi-professional side to influence Nicholson... He is the only one of the 16 out-of-contract players who has rejected the chance to stay at Rovers. 'We'll have to see where Kevin wants to go, and I have no problem with him wanting to go elsewhere', said Harvey. 'But a month ago, Paul Fairclough phoned me to ask about full-backs. I sang Kevin's praises and he took him to Scotland. He came back, and has said he is not signing his new contract as he is talking to Barnet. If he has been tapped up by Paul, then I am disappointed. I recommended Kevin for a call-up, and if that time away was used to get him to Barnet, then it's totally out of order'. York are also unhappy with Fairclough after Barnet signed England international Neal Bishop. Responding, Fairclough said: 'When any quality players become available in the League or Conference, Barnet have to be interested. I don't see why Barnet should be disadvantaged because I am the England manager'".

From Yorkshire, the Halifax Courier comes news that "Town boss Chris Wilder has admitted that Martin McIntosh, who signed for Mansfield at the weekend, was on his list of potential summer signings... 'I wanted to bring him in before the FA Trophy tie at Kidderminster', said Wilder. 'We were one of the clubs in the frame for him following his release by Huddersfield'".

Crawley Town report that "Four players have committed themselves to the Reds for the new season and include a goalkeeper, two defenders and a striker. Much sought-after goalkeeper Ashley Bayes joins from Grays Athletic, outstanding young defender Jamie Stevens joins from Evans’ sformer club Boston United, centre-back Bradley Thomas from Yeovil Town and they are joined by Brazilian goalscoring striker Magno Vieira who counts Carlisle United and Barnet among his former clubs".

NORTH WEST NEWS

DARREN'S SURPRISE

GEOFF'S VIEW

OPPONENTS STRENGTHEN

BLUE SQUARE PREMIER NEWS

The BBC reports from Torquay United that "The Gulls had a nightmare season with four chairmen, four managers and 44 players, which ended in relegation. Now, the club has been taken over by a group of local businessmen. Until a few days ago Daryl Batten was general manager of Torquay's Grand Hotel. Now he is General Manager of Torquay United and he has big plans for new revenue streams. 'This club is about to flourish under sponsorship because it is so undernourished', he says. 'We're talking to people at the moment who are very happy to come and look at us because they wouldn't have done under the ownership of Mike Bateson over the last 18 years'. Mr Batten is so confident of the money-making potential at the club that he does not expect the amount it makes to fall significantly following relegation. 'I think if we can get some wins under our belt we can actually increase the turnover and not see a slump in profit', he says".

Meanwhile, "Recently appointed Woking boss Frank Gray insists he has nothing to prove on his return to management in the Blue Square Premier. Gray was named as Glenn Cockerill's successor at Kingfield in May - six months after losing his job with league rivals Grays Athletic... 'We felt we did an okay job there. The club was just three points off a play-off spot when we left', Gray told BBC Sport. 'They did not finish there, so we have nothing to prove to anybody'.. [At Woking] 'It's a good challenge, there are good people here and we want to move the club forward and progress'. Fifteen players have left since the end of last season with seven new faces arriving to add to the retention of key players like defender Tom Hutchinson, winger Goma Lambu and exciting young forward Giuseppe Sole. 'We targeted players and we have got more of less the ones we wanted, which is good... We have got some younger and hungrier players who are looking to do well'... Gray returned to former club Farnborough to sign three players in Michael Charles, Matt Pattison and Jay Gasson and all of his acquisitions to date have come from teams lower down the non-league pyramid".

Confguide reports that "Tristram Whitman has signed for Farsley Celtic". Whitman almost joined Alty a year or so ago.

Torquay United "have signed Elliot Benyon from Bristol City and Paul Hinshelwood from Brighton and Hove Albion. Elliot has signed a 2 year contract and Paul a 1 year deal. Both players stated their desire to play for Paul Buckle and consider Torquay the perfect place to make a name for themselves. They were both impressed by the positive approach shown by the new regime at United... Elliot is 19 years old and has an excellent scoring record in a relatively short career in reserve football and on loan with St Albans City and Crawley Town. Paul is 19 years old and signed professional terms at the start of last season after being a trainee with Brighton. He is considered a hard tackling defender and is the brother of Adam who was a team mate at Brighton. Some of you may remember Paul's father of the same name who starred for Crystal Palace in the late seventies and early eighties".

The transition from Conference to League football is a major upheaval. The BBC says that "Steve Thompson has only been managing director of Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club since 5 April... Before that, Dagenham & Redbridge was a members' club, but it has just been promoted to the Football League, whose rules say that it has to be incorporated. 'The only real change is that they gave me the fancy title of managing director as opposed to financial secretary', he says... Both the teams that have been promoted to League Two this year - Dagenham & Redbridge, and Morecambe - already have almost entirely professional playing staffs, like most teams in the Conference... The really new challenges are off the pitch... Mr Thompson, predicts that turnover will go up between 25 and 30% to about £1.75m...., 'Now there's more people coming in than just our hardcore supporters and they quite rightly expect to be able to access the club shop on non-match days and be able to buy tickets in advance online', he says. 'That then can't be staffed by volunteers because it needs to be a more permanent and structured environment and that's where we need to get in extra staff... I always budget to be knocked out in the first round of every cup competition that we go into'". However , "Live Sky TV coverage of a League Two game is worth £30,000 to the home team. If Dagenham qualifies for the second round of the Carling Cup and the match is screened live, then the team will receive £100,000".

BLUE SQUARE NORTH NEWS

OLD RIVALS GO UNDER

CUP DATES

As for the FA Trophy, Alty enter at the 1st Round Proper:

BLUE SQUARE PREMIER NEWS

From the Thurrock Gazette we hear that "Popular Grays Athletic midfielder Stuart Thurgood has extended his contract with the club by a further two years, ending speculation that he might be about to join up with former boss Mark Stimson at Stevenage.. He appears to have been impressed by the raft of new signings made by current Blues boss Justin Edinburgh. Edinburgh is also currently in talks with centre half Jamie Stuart with a view to extending his contract by two years".

The Kidderminster Shuttle says that "Harriers' boss Mark Yates and assistant Neil Howarth have signed two-year contracts... The management duo agreed a deal with Harriers chairman Barry Norgrove on Friday after months of hard work behind the scenes by all three parties". Meanwhile, "Harriers' Wembley marksman James Constable is recovering well after having a hernia operation".

This is South Devon reports that "Afc wimbledon striker Roscoe Dsane could be the next new face at Torquay United after the London club revealed that the Gulls had enquired about his services. Former Aldershot star Dsane, 26, hit 21 goals for the Dons in the Ryman League Premier Division last season, and team manager Terry Brown is desperate to keep hold of him. However, Dsane could be keen to prove himself at Conference level again having shone during an impressive spell with the Shots three years ago. The former England non-league international hit 30 goals in 57 Conference appearances before a serious knee injury forced him out of the game for a year... The Dons' manager said: 'One of the teams in for him is Torquay. Making a decision like that is life-changing because you are talking about moving miles away from home. Roscoe has got lots of offers on the table and is keeping his options open, which I understand'. Dsane has claimed that he will make a decision by the end of the week".

Further up the south coast, This is Weymouth states that "Terras'' boss Jason Tindall says he is unable to confirm the signatures of Swindon youngsters Jonathan Stewart and Scott Doe until the club's future is determined. Swindon youth team manager David Byrne was reported to have confirmed the goal-keeper and centre half had joined Weymouth after they were released by Robins' boss Paul Sturrock. Tindall revealed: 'We have spoken to two players from Swindon but we have got to wait to see what happens'. Fans are still waiting to hear news of a takeover bid for the Wessex Stadium outfit which is expected soon".

The BBC confirms that "Farsley Celtic have made defender Mark Jackson their first signing since their promotion to the Blue Square Premier. Former Scunthorpe defender Jackson arrives at the Throstle Nest after leaving Rochdale at the end of last season, after 18-months at Spotland. Jackson, 29, has started over 200 League games in a career which began at Leeds and took in Kidderminster"

At another promoted club, Salisbury City, the BBC says that the club have "made keeper Ryan Clarke their fifth full-time professional player. Clarke follows Matt Tubbs, Mike Fowler, Robbie Matthews and new signing Liam Feeney in agreeing full-time terms. The 25-year-old kept 22 clean sheets in 56 league and cup appearances in his first season with the Whites after joining last summer. Player-coach Tommy Widdrington said: 'He had a great first season and I'm pleased he's agreed to come full-time'".

From This is United we learn that "Fears of possible fixture congestion for Oxford United and the other leading non-League clubs have been allayed after they learned how the third cup competition will work. For the first time next season, Conference clubs will take part in a new Setanta Shield, in addition to the FA Cup, FA Carlsberg Trophy and playing 46 league games in the Blue Square Premier. For many clubs it has been a concern how they would fit all the matches in, but United secretary and general manager Mick Brown says it should be manageable. 'It's going to be called the Setanta Shield'... said Brown... 'As a Premier team we don't come in until the fourth round proper. The competition starts in October, so we probably won't come in until the New Year when relatively few non-League teams are still involved in both the FA Cup and FA Trophy. There are rules to ensure that clubs play their strongest teams, by making sure they have a mimumum percentage of the team they had put out the previous Saturday'... The U's have already announced they will have a smaller senior squad than last term, and have pulled out of the Pontin's Holidays Combination reserve-team league. Conference clubs had been hoping to learn at the league's AGM how much money they would receive from both Setanta, who will be showing 79 live games each season, and Blue Square, but specific details were in scant supply... 'We will learn these at the league's first board meeting in the middle of July', said Brown..'Matches (shown by Setanta) will be primarily on Tuesdays and Thursdays... We were told that the Setanta deal and the Blue Square sponsorship is much better than the previous deals with Nationwide and Sky, but they didn't go into any detail'".

Grays Athletic "have signed 23yr old Midfielder, Charley Hearn on a 1 year contract from Fisher Athletic. Charley started as a trainee with Millwall before moving to Northampton Town on loan, before moving to Fisher Athletic".

Conference South's Havant & Waterlooville says that following the recent Conference AGM "One significant change is that John Moules is no longer in charge of the Conference itself, which will now be run by Dennis Strudwick. Long term fans will remember Mr Strudwick as the man in charge of the Southern League, and as he will now be in charge of manually compiling the fixture list it isn’t expected to appear until the start of July. This may also mean a change in the arrangement of some fixtures. Fans will remember Mr Strudwick’s preference for matching Christmas and Easter games as opposed to Christmas and New Year... Big news for all clubs is the resurrection of the league cup in the form of the ‘Setanta Shield’. This competition will see early rounds divided regionally between the Blue Square North and South before clubs from the Blue Square Premier enter. Prize money for this competition will be significant... The competition is also assured of being a tough one, a rule has been put in place that clubs must field a side that contains at least 10 players of the 16 that participated in the league game prior to each cup tie... A new rule has also been introduced to put an end to what has become known as ‘tactical insolvency’. Clubs will continue to be penalised 10 points for entering administration, but the rule now states that if this happens after the last Thursday in March, the deduction will come from the following season’s points total. It is hoped this will prevent clubs declaring insolvency prematurely to avoid starting the next season 10 points down".

At Droylsden, former Alty midfielder Ged Murphy (right) has returned to the Butcher's Arms after playing for Stafford Rangers last season. Meanhile. "General Match Day Admission Prices for 2007/08 season will be as follows: Adults - £12, Senior Citizens - £8, 14 to 18 year olds - £8 , Under 14s - Free. There will be no additional charge to sit down".

York City "captain, Emmanuel Panther... was offered new terms at the end of the season and [has now] accepted a deal to stay with the Minstermen for another year. Panther commented, 'I’m really delighted to have signed this new deal to commit myself to the Club for another season. We achieved great things last season and I really want to progress further and try to gain promotion to the Football League'".

From the Conference we read that "Exeter City are determined to hang onto the services of Lee Phillips despite reports that Torquay are interested in him. The former Plymouth Argyle star was unhappy at playing a rotation role last season, but remains under contract with the Grecians until the end of the next campaign... Manager Paul Tisdale told thisisexeter.co.uk: 'I am totally happy for Lee to play for Exeter for another season, if not longer. If any club is interested in any of our players who are under contract, then they are entitled to make an offer... Lee is under contract and is a very good player. I started him in the last two games of the season, so let's not think that I don't rate the guy. He played extremely well in the last two games and at the moment he has got the shirt. We have had no offers for him at all'".

OLD BOYS

BLUE SQUARE NORTH NEWS

The BBC reports that "Boston United chief executive Barrie Pierpoint is standing down so that he can push ahead with plans to rescue the troubled club. He was originally brought in by a mystery consortium ahead of an anticipated takeover. But with talks apparently deadlocked after six months of negotiations, Mr Pierpoint has quit so that he can develop an alternative rescue package... Pierpoint has linked up with the Pilgrims' long-serving general manager John Blackwell to try to form a consortium to rescue the club. They said their plan would be a safeguard if the Leeds-based Standing Alone group fails in its bid to buy Boston from current owners Lavaflow. A public meeting will be held at the club's York Street ground on Sunday at 1130 BST when Mr Pierpoint will give fans more details... Meanwhile the Standing Alone consortium has insisted it still hopes to take over the club. A spokesman said: 'Any suggestion that the talks have collapsed is incorrect'... Standing Alone 'remains committed, at this stage, to gaining control of the football club and keeping it alive'".

PLEASE HELP

Outside Altrincham's Moss Lane ground, currently, are the two posters pictured above. Please do help the club both by purchasing your season tickets and by volunteering for this weekend's Working Party at Moss Lane on Saturday and Sunday from 10am. Please ring the club (928-1045) or e-mail Karen or Grahame Rowley in advance so that they can plan the days. If the weather is wet there are undercover jobs to be done. The working parties will also convene for the next two weekends.

Please note that adult, concessionary and junior season tickets attract a £10 discount if bought by 30 June 2007.

YOUTH TEAM AWARDS

George revealed that he had not expected this year's squad to win anything in 2006-07 so he was delighted to be proved wrong when, representing the Altrincham and District FA, the lads had won the Cheshire County FA District Youth Cup. In fact, it was the first time in the competitions history that Altrincham FA had lifted the Cup in successive years. Norman Sherriff was a very welcome guest and, on behalf of the Altrincham & District FA, he presented the team with their District Cup medals.

Finally, captain Tom Barclay, with Jim Vince senior made presentations to Hannah, the youth team physio and to Jenny Heslop, who worked hard to keep the kit in pristine condition throughout the season, and your website correspondent was taken aback to receive a welcome gift of a pen with which to make next season's match reports! A presentation was also made by the club to Julieann Gresty and Hannah who had assisted the District side with their physiotherapy skills.

Above: Alex Murphy, Clubman of the Year, with Graham Heathcote.	Above: Tom Bailey, Manager George Heslop's Player of the Year.
Above: Marcus Baxby, the Players' Player of the Year	Above: Tom Barclay receives his medal from Norman Sherriff

George Heslop revelaed that for 2007-08 he would be emulating the first team in having three training sessions a week, starting from 1st July and that he had already arranged three full games in pre-season against the Manchester County FA, Ashton Town and Congleton Town youth sides. In addition the Altrincham Youth side would again take part in the international youth tournament held at Manchester University's playing fields and would also host a friendly against a USA touring side. Through this pre-season schedule George and his assistant Tony Spilsbury would reduce the 92 applicants for the youth team to a reasonable-sized squad for 2007-08 season.

FAREWELLS

The reinstatement of Altrincham at the national level of non-league football has been bad news for the long-serving centre-back Gary Talbot (right) who had been invited to stay at the club for 2007-08 when it looked as if the Robins would be playing in the Blue Square North next season. Gary, who is 37 later this year, made 263(+18) appearances for the club and scored 19 goals, his career encompassing two spells at Moss Lane. He originally signed for Alty towards the end of the 1998/99 season from Winsford United but was sold by Alty to Northwich for a fee of £2,500 on 25 January, 2001 in the wake of Alty's financial rescue package, announced that week. He became the Vics' captain but was released and re-joined Altrincham for the 2002-03 season when he was a regular first-teamer and occasional captain. A calf injury in September 2006 led to his making only limited appearances (10+12) last season but he retained his phenomenal heading ability to the end of his Alty career.

The third departure was that of Andy Scott, who was only signed in late January 2007. Andy can play in a variety of other positions including left-back and in midfield. He had been at Kidsgrove Athletic since the start of the 2006-07 season but, before that, enjoyed success at a number of clubs, including Leigh RMI, Stalybridge Celtic (from 1999), Southport (from January 2002), and Lancaster City (from June 2003) - the last three clubs all being under the management of Phil Wilson. A former youth international, Andy had spells with Blackburn Rovers, Cardiff City and Rochdale as a youngster. He made his debut on 27 January 2007 and his career appearances for Alty totalled 6 (+1).

Altrincham FC wishes all three players success in their future careers.

INJURY NEWS

OLD BOYS

GROUND WORKS

BLUE SQUARE PREMIER NEWS

Meanwhile, "Mark Albrighton believes he can bounce straight back into League football with Cambridge United after signing a one-year deal... The experienced 31-year-old centre-half moved to the Abbey after having his contract with crisis club Boston torn up by mutual consent following their demotion to the Blue Square Northern. And he is no stranger to assistant-manager Alan Lewer, having been signed for £15,000 by the then Telford boss from his first club Atherstone eight years ago".

At Crawley Town "Midfielder Steve Evans has agreed a deal to remain at the Broadfield next season. Evans was fall of praise for his name-sake when the official website caught up with the former Wales u21 international. Evans said, 'It was good to hear the club go for someone with a proven track record. He has good experience of the Conference and has already taken Boston into the League. I think we can push on next season and build on some of the things we did last year... With a bit more luck, some new additions and the influence of the new manager we can hopefully have a really good season'. Evans will be joined at the Broadfield Stadium next season by fellow midfielders Lee Blackburn, Tony Scully and Dannie Bulman, and defenders Ben Judge and David Woozley".

Ebbsfleet United say that "With the impending likely departure of one MacDonald, Liam Daish has swelled the Fleet ranks with another, Gary MacDonald, from Woking. The 27-year old tough-tackling central defender, who played under Liam Daish at Havant & Waterlooville in 2000-01, has league experience with Peterborough United (21 games) and has also played for Stevenage. Chukki Eribenne, Sam Mott and George Purcell have all signed new deals with the club. Talks are still ongoing with Mark DeBolla and Onome Sodje about extending their stay at Stonebridge Road.However, heading in the other direction are popular defender Ross Smith, midfielder Jon Keeling and PASE graduate Mike McKenna. Smith’s contract talks have been delayed for four months, and Liam Daish has instead opted to sign Woking’s Gary MacDonald. This brings to an end two fine seasons at the Fleet for the Canadian, who is believed to be seeking a place in the Football League. Meanwhile Jon Keeling is reunited with former manager Jeff King, after he accepted a more lucrative offer at Ryman Premier side Chelmsford City".

Grays Athletic have released Defender, Gavin Cowan, by mutual consent".

At Kidderminster Harriers, "Assistant Manager Neil Howarth has confirmed to the official website that defender Jonny Harkness has now put pen-to-paper on the one-year deal... Harriers have finally made their first summer plunge into the transfer market with the acquisition of striker Justin Richards from League Two side Peterborough United".

"Salisbury City striker Robbie Matthews has become the fourth player to agree full-time professional terms with the Blue Square Premier newcomers. Matthews, 25, follows Matt Tubbs, Mike Fowler and new signing Liam Feeney in stepping up from the part-time ranks" claims the BBC. "'I'm delighted he's taken the plunge to go full-time with us', Whites' player-coach Tommy Widdrington told the Salisbury Journal. 'We all know what a big part he played in the club's success last season'".

"Weymouth look poised to complete a deal to bring in new owners. The Terras' chairman Martyn Harrison has been in talks with prospective buyers and expects a new deal to be completed very soon...Harrison told the Dorset Echo, 'I'll not be taking an active role with the club. But I'll carry on supporting the Terras and hope the club can go from strength to strength'" states the BBC.

"Torquay United boss Paul Buckle has added to his backroom staff with the appointment of former Oxford reserve team coach Shaun North. North, who also previously worked at Portsmouth and alongside Buckle at Weymouth, takes on a coaching role in the new-look set-up at Plainmoor". The BBC adds that "Long-serving midfielder/defender Matt Hockley has agreed a new deal. The 25-year-old has made over 200 appearances for the Gulls since coming through the club's youth scheme".

Still in Devon, "Exeter City boss Paul Tisdale has stepped up his summer recruitment drive with the capture of goalkeeper Andy Marriott and defender Matt Taylor. Marriott, 36, joins the Grecians from Boston United... The former Barnsley and Torquay keeper had the remaining 12 months of his contract at York Street cancelled. Central defender Taylor, 25, a former FA Trophy winner with Burscough, has signed from Team Bath" according to the BBC.

"Halifax Town boss Chris Wilder has made winger Daryl Taylor his first new signing of the summer. Taylor has agreed a two-year deal at the Shay after leaving Conference side Tamworth... 'I didn't think we had enough pace in the side once Andy Campbell was injured and Daryl has exceptional pace', Wilder told the Halifax Courier. Taylor, 22, who can also play as a central striker, has also had spells with Walsall and Bury" states the BBC.

"Stevenage Borough defender Luke Oliver has agreed a new contract to extend his stay at Broadhall Way. Oliver, who joined Boro from Yeovil in January 2006, has put pen to paper on a two-year deal. The towering 24-year-old former Woking centre-back was also used as a striker on occasions by the FA Trophy winners last season. That underlined Boro's striking problem and manager Mark Stimson is continuing his efforts to solve it" says the BBC.

Southport "Chairman and Blue Square Conference Vice Chairman Charles Clapham has, along with John Moules, been elected onto the FA. Both Blue Square Chief Executive John Moules and Blue Square Vice Chairman Charles Clapham take their FA positions following the Burns report and FA restructuring. It is the first time the Conference have had FA representation".

York City report that "Despite being offered a new contract by the Club, midfielder Neal Bishop has left York City to sign for North London side Barnet F.C. The 25 year old was signed by Barnet manager Paul Fairclough, who also coaches the England National side in which Bishop featured earlier in the month. Commenting on the move, Communications & Community Director, Sophie McGill said, “During the last conversation the Club had with Neal Bishop, the player stated it was his intention to sign for York City Football Club. We do not know the full details as Neal Bishop has not had the courtesy to contact any Club personnel to make us aware of the circumstances prior to today’s news. It is disappointing when a player cannot be straight and honest with you, but sadly this happens all too frequently in the Football Industry. Since the end of the season, Billy McEwan has been speaking to a lot of players with the prospect of them signing for York City. The hard work continues behind the scenes and hopefully soon we will be in a position to announce these new additions to the squad'”.

The Northwich Guardian says that "Northwich Victoria are hoping to name a new manager this week. Mike Connett has hired former Manchester City boss John Bond to help him find the right man, who could be in place as soon as Monday. Seven hopefuls have been interviewed to far". But, "Vics' two England internationals have asked to be transfer listed. Former boss Steve Burr told Kieran Charnock and Michael Carr they could leave if he failed to take Northwich to the top of the league, according to chairman Mike Connett. 'He filled their head with magic and promises he could not keep', Connett told Vics' fans on Thursday. He said he had agreed to put the pair on the transfer list but, because they each have a year to run on their contracts, clubs will have to pay the right price. 'I don't want them to end up playing against us', said Connett. 'However I've always said I would never stand in any player's way if they were given the chance to play in the Football League. So unless someone makes what I consider to be a decent offer, then they'll be staying here'. Charnock, 22, and 23-year-old Carr made more than 100 appearances between them last season... Connett says that to date nobody has asked him to name his price for the duo. 'I'd love them to stay', he added".

The Football Conference confirms that "Northwich Victoria... have received more than thirty applications for the manager's job, including former Chester City chief Mark Wright, ex-Liverpool midfielder Jason McAteer and Brian Horton."

From Aldershot's News and Mail we read that "Aldershot assistant manager Martin Kuhl has admitted that the club have been priced out of a move to re-sign former fans’ favourite Tim Sills. The 27-year-old Hereford striker admitted last week that he would welcome a return to The Rec and with the club confirming their interest, a deal appeared to be on the cards. However, with rivals Stevenage and Rushden and Diamonds also interested in the Romsey-born forward, Kuhl revealed that any transfer now looks unlikely. 'Unless the wage demands are sorted out, any deal for Tim is dead I’m afraid', he said. 'I have been told that he is going somewhere else now and while we were interested in bringing him back, we can’t afford his wages. We would like to speak to him but we are so far away from each other in terms of wages that it is not something that’s going to happen at the moment. Tim is a very good player and I’m sure there are a few clubs after him but we can’t afford what he wants'”.

Meanwhile, The Northants Evening Telegraph confirms that "Rushden & Diamonds have set their sights on striker Tim Sills. The 27-year-old looks ready to follow central defender Phil Gulliver on a free transfer from Hereford United – despite still being under contract for next season at the Coca-Cola League Two club. Diamonds' boss Garry Hill – currently on a family break – has already admitted that he wants to bring in a more experienced forward to partner Simeon Jackson, Michael Rankine or Lee Tomlin up front. They seem to be favourites to secure Sills' signature after Blue Square Premier rivals Aldershot Town pulled out of a deal. Stevenage Borough are thought to be in a head-to-head battle with Diamonds – although the Hertfordshire club have conceded defeat over a possible transfer... Stevenage chairman Phil Wallace added: 'We've been unsuccessful in our attempt to sign a striker from a League Two club but we'll continue to look around'... If a deal is done, he would become Hill's sixth new signing and link up again with Gulliver".

The Crawley Observer says that"New Crawley Town boss Steve Evans is hoping to have new signings in the bag by the end of the week. Evans, who was installed as boss two weeks ago, has been working hard over the weekend, talking to six players, who he believes will get the fans excited.He told Observer Sport: 'It's a busy time at the moment and we have spoken to five or six players and hopefully they will be interested in what we have to offer. It's not a case of having to outbid anyone for these players, it's about selling the club to them and showing them we have ambition'".

YOUTH NIGHT

BUSHELL BACK TO SHAY

GREAT VALUE AT MOSS LANE

Turnstile Prices 2007-08

Season Ticket Prices 2007-08

If a Concessions / Junior or Adult season ticket is purchased before June 30th a £10 discount on the above prices can be applied.

PLAYERS BACK NEXT WEEK

CHANGE OF PHYSIO

ANOTHER FRIENDLY

FRIENDS' WINNER

As the Club has no contact details for the winner, David Mardon, would he please contact Karen Rowley at the club on 928 1045 or e-mail Steve Foster. Please do consider joining the Friends Scheme, to help the club and to give your self the chance of winning a £100 prize and or one of the two runner-up prizes.

WORKING PARTIES

"Now that our place in the Blue Square Premier has been confirmed, we need to get the ground looking ship shape for the new season. With this in mind, we have set up the first few working weekends. The dates are as follows: -

Any help would be greatly appreciated. So that we can allocate jobs, it would be useful if you could let us know in advance as to which days you will be able to turn up. Please email me or ring the club on 0161-928-1045".

The Club is reliant on volunteers to help with tidying up the ground for the new season and hopes that everyone who can possibly do so will come along and lend a hand with jobs which include painting and minor maintenance.

"GREAT ESCAPE"

Last Monday, "Altrincham manager Graham Heathcote was delighted after his side were reinstated into the Blue Square Premier at the expense of Boston... 'We have had a reprieve, we are in it and we have to move on and organise for being in it', Heathcote told BBC Sport. ' I am delighted as a club and we have to take this opportunity... My first thoughts were for the Boston fans. They are the ones that suffer and I feel sorry for them. Our joy is tempered with sadness for Boston and the people there that I know. Having been through difficult situations ourselves I know what they are going through'. After six weeks of planning for life in Blue Square North, Heathcote must now readjust his sights to produce a team capable of finishing better than fourth from bottom in the Premier... 'The pleasing thing to me has been the loyalty of the players. For them to say they are staying is fantastic', said the Robins boss... 'We have to improve on last year. I think 51 points was quite a good achievement but it was still not good enough. We were a bottom four side so we will have to look to improve, although at this level it is difficult. There are a lot of finances involved, which make it difficult to compete. The same problems still exist. If people think it will be any easier they will be wrong'".

The Conference website reports that "Boston United chairman Jim Rodwell has explained the reasons for the former league club's demotion to Blue Square North. 'I think that it is important for people to understand why the Conference have taken the decision to demote Boston into their northern division', Rodwell told the Lincolnshire Echo. 'Having met with representatives of all three bodies governing Boston United on May 31st, it soon became clear that the football club was between a rock and a hard place. The issue revolves around the payment of football creditors. Football creditors are players, other clubs and governing bodies who are owed money by the football club. It is a matter of policy of the Football League and Football Association that all football creditors must be paid 100 pence in the pound to enable them to regain their share, which is suspended at the time of entering into a company voluntary arrangement (CVA). Boston United and its prospective new owners, Standing Alone Limited, were always fully aware of this and fully intended to pay back football creditors in full to enable the club to play in the highest division possible. This was demonstrated in the first draft proposal of the CVA, which included proposals for all football creditors to be paid in full. However, this was unacceptable to HMRC (HM Revenue & Customs). The Inland Revenue insisted that they would only support Boston United's CVA proposal if all creditors, including football creditors, accepted the same level of repayment. If football creditors were paid outside the CVA, HMRC made it quite clear that they would have issued winding-up proceedings against Boston United immediately, forcing the club into liquidation. This effectively left Boston United with no alternative but to admit defeat in paying football creditors in full. It was expressed to myself at the meeting with the football authorities that in the experience of the people in the room, it was the hardest line ever taken by HMRC in dealings with a football club. The Conference were then forced into making a very difficult decision in which level to place Boston United. By demoting the club to Blue Square North, it was the minimum demotion they could have handed out, without contravening the footballing insolvency policy. One factor which weighed heavily in the club's favour was the understanding of the authorities that it was the full intention of Boston United to pay football creditors in full, if it had been at all possible. It is clearly with regret that we find ourselves relegated, not on the pitch, but for other reasons. However, it was a choice of having a football club in Blue Square North or no club at all. I expect the takeover by Standing Alone Limited to be completed in the next couple of days, which will enable the football club to restructure and hopefully prosper on the pitch'".

INS AND OUTS

As SAM says, "Defensive duo Gary Talbot and Andy Scott have become the first victims of Alty's summer clearout following their relegation reprieve. The pair had already committed themselves to a season in the Blue Square North with the Robins. But when the club was reinstated to the Blue Square Premier at Saturday's Conference AGM, manager Graham Heathcote's plans changed and they have now made way for a host of new arrivals. Darren Tinson has already arrived at Moss Lane and Heathcote has targeted at least five more new faces before the start of the season. Of the players departing, it is Gary Talbot who will be most sorely missed by Alty fans. The 36-year-old, known as 'Steakhead' by his teammates, made 281 appearances in more than five years for the club. Renowned for his prodigious heading ability and no-nonsense style, Talbot became a key figure in the Alty defence, forming a formidable partnership alongside fellow Liverpudlian Mark Maddox. But his appearances last season were limited by injury and Heathcote decided now was the time for him to move on. He told SAM Sport: 'Gary's not staying with us simply because we're in the National again. He's been a fantastic ambassador for this club over the years and a fantastic example of someone who's looked after himself to play football. It's a real shame that he's got to go but Gary himself admitted that the pace of the game at this level was probably too much for him now'. Meanwhile, Scott leaves after just five months at Moss Lane. He was brought in as defensive cover midway through last season and made seven appearances for the club, playing at left back and in centre midfield".

The arrival of centre-back Darren Tinson at Moss Lane has been confirmed by vice-chairman Grahame Rowley. SAM adds that "The Robins had been in hot pursuit of the experienced defender since it became clear he was leaving Burton and now they've got their man... It ends almost two weeks of speculation after the 37-year-old's possible switch became embroiled in controversy. The club announced his arrival on June 2, only for the player to claim he had not made any firm decision on his future. But Tinson has now agreed to come to Moss Lane, leaving manager Graham Heathcote delighted. He told SAM Sport: 'He was my first summer target and that would've been whether Bandy was going or not. As soon as we found out Darren wanted to go part-time we did all we could to bring him here. I do believe he will improve our side. He has been successful at league and at Conference level and only a year ago he was playing at Old Trafford with Burton. He's always been a player you don't want to play against because he's very tough to get past and he'll be a great addition to the defence'".

SAM's Connor Murphy also writes that "Gary Scott should learn his Alty fate within the next week. The popular full back has yet to be signed up... due to concerns over an ongoing hernia problem. Scott originally had an operation on the injury in summer 2005 but the problem resurfaced last season, limiting him to just 29 appearances. But the 29-year-old saw a specialist this week and will soon have a clearer picture on his future. Assistant manager Dalton Steele told SAM Sport: 'Scotty's gone to see a consultant so in a week we should know if he'll be alright for the new season. We want to help the players who have given us great service and Scotty's definitely one of them. But it's going to be difficult next season and we can't afford to carry anyone'".

ALTRINCHAM REPRIEVED

FEET UP

"ALTY THE BEST"

SUBTLE LEWIS

DANNY'S WEDDING

BLUE SQUARE NORTH NEWS

The Lancashire Telegraph reports that "Gareth Seddon admits he could have only dreamed that he would one day get a second chance at his career as a professional footballer. But this summer may prompt a bidding war between Conference and League Two clubs for the former Bury hotshot's signature after he was cleared of a medical condition that threatened to completely rob him of the only livelihood he had ever wanted. After taking a three-year break from the rigours of full-time training, the aimiable 27-year-old has made a full recovery from spondyloarthropathy - a strain of arthritis which affects the immune system and causes inflammation in joints. Now, on the back of a string of impressive performances for Nationwide Conference side Hyde United led to an England National Game XI cap in their Four Nations Tournament win last week, he is eager to pick up where he left off and make an incredible Football League return. 'This season's been good because it's the first one I've played properly for a couple of years',said Burnley-born Seddon, whose two goals in two games for England's non-league side took his tally for the season to 40 - a personal best. 'I was going to go back to the Conference full-time at the start of the season, but then I thought I would be better off going to Hyde, staying part-time and easing my way back into it and see how I am. Morecambe had made enquiries about me, but then they had a change of manager and that got put on hold. But I couldn't wait around any longer... so I signed for Hyde'. Morecambe may renew their interest in Seddon this summer, while a number of other league and Conference clubs... scouted him while he was on duty with Paul Fairclough's England side last week. 'It would have to be a good deal for me to go into the Conference, but to go back into the Football League is a totally different appeal', he said. 'Hyde would understand that, but I think it would have to be a good deal for them too'... Spondyloarthropathy was diagnosed in January 2005 following numerous tests and investigations. Gambling and drinking numbed the pain of no longer being able to sustain the formidable goalscoring reputation he had garnered at Bury and that he hoped would flourish at new club Rushden and Diamonds. He had recovered from a back injury that had kept him sidelined for an entire season with the Shakers to finish top scorer the following term... Doctors advised him that the only chance he stood of ever ridding himself of the condition that plagued him was to quit as a professional... 'I went for blood tests last March and they said the condition had completely gone from my system', he beamed... And he had no hesitation in cancelling a holiday to Marbella when the England call-up came... 'And out of all the squad, they voted me player of the tournament, which was great. I have a tattoo that says always believe in yourself' in Latin', he said".

Despite interest from Scarborough who are seeking a new manager, Blyth Spartans' boss Harry Dunn has indicated that he will not be leaving Croft Park.

BLUE SQUARE PREMIER NEWS

The Argus reports that "Former Crawley favourite Ernie Cooksey wants to reunite with boss Steve Evans at Broadfield Stadium. Cooksey was part of the Boston United side relegated from the Football League under Evans on the final day of last season. The 26-year-old joined the Lincolnshire club during the January transfer window from Rochdale. He... spent a successful season with Reds four years ago, before securing a move to Oldham to launch his League career... He said: 'I really enjoyed my time at Crawley and, although I know at lot has changed there since my time, I would definitely like to come back and play for them. I don't know the ins and outs of what has been going on there but I still talk to (defender) Ben Judge and look out for their results. I am quite settled in Manchester with my girlfriend now but if I was going to move back down to London, then Crawley would be the perfect club to play for'... Cooksey describes the Glaswegian [Evans] as 'volatile' but believes he can bring success to Reds... He said: 'The style of football he plays is at a very high tempo and is very direct. It is in-your-face stuff and if he can get the right players, it can be very effective, especially at Conference level'... Evans only has six players currently on contract and says he wants to work with a squad of 18... The new management team are planning to take the players on a five-day training camp during pre-season to help team bonding. [Asistant manager] Raynor said: 'It is something we have always done at Boston and we want to do it again. It will be paid for by a new sponsor who is coming on board and will be a good way for Steve and I to really get to know the lads. It will be a specialist training centre and will really improve the players' fitness'".

The BBC says that "Former Grimsby defender John McDermott has applied for the managerial vacancy at Boston United... McDermott, 38, retired this summer after making a record-breaking 646 league appearances for the Mariners. 'There's nothing to lose', the veteran told Grimsby's website. 'I may not have any experience but I have my coaching badges up to UEFA 'A' and am keen to stay in football. Hopefully my application will be seriously considered. People like Paul Ince have shown you can go in and do it, so why can't I?'".

"Halifax Town have agreed new contracts with striker Lewis Killeen and [ex-Alty] winger Steve Torpey. Killeen, 24, and 25-year-old Torpey will both be returning to the Conference club for next season. Boss Chris Wilder has already tied Andy Campbell, Matt Doughty and Lewis Killeen to new contracts" says the BBC.

GROWTH AT ALTY

Right: Under the guidance of groundsman Neil Brown, the grass is growing very well at Moss Lane after the summer treatment to the pitch.

ALTY'S BOND

BLUE SQUARE NORTH NEWS

Meanwhile Kettering Town have signed Jon Brady from Cambridge United.

IC Birmingham says that "Oxford United and Burton Albion are believed to be tracking out-of-contract Moor Green midfielder Phil Trainer... Moors spokesman Nigel Collins said: 'I understand both clubs have been in touch with Phil but nothing has been agreed yet'... His career was transformed after joining Moor Green. Unable to establish himself in the side at Tamworth, Trainer has also had spells with Halesowen Town and Crewe Alexandra. However, his prospects took off after linking up with Moors manager Bob Faulkner... Loyal Lee Collins has agreed to stay with the new-look Moors next season. Collins had become a target for rivals Worcester City. But the central defender has agreed to remain... Manager Bob Faulkner has now secured the bulk of last season's side. He has handed young midfield player Junior English a new contract and is also in talks to try to keep his former Leyton Orient player Dave Morrison".

IC Sefton reports that "With Port star Carl Baker poised to pick up his second England National XI cap tonight in Finland, manager Peter Davenport has been inundated with enquiries... [After] his recall to the England squad by Paul Fairclough... the Haig Avenue hot-shot is on a number of managers’ summer shopping lists. Peter Davenport said: 'Of course I want to see Carl here at Haig Avenue in August. We have had a great deal of interest in the last couple of weeks including two Football League clubs. Interest from the Blue Square Premier has also been high. However, and Carl knows this, I am still waiting for an offer that is acceptable to Southport Football Club. If and when Carl moves it has to be right for all parties. That is all I can say at the moment. I am expecting some concrete offers on the table in the next few days and we will consider them. Carl is on contract with us next season and I am not rushing the process'”.

Hucknall Today reports that "a third former player has made a surprising return to Hucknall Town as manager Andy Legg continues to bring in new blood. Ex-fans' favourite Danny Mayman is on his way back to Watnall Road from Conference top-flight side Northwich Victoria where he has spent the last two-and-a-half years. The news will be a further boost to Legg, who returned from his holidays this week to hear that young striker Liam Hearn had also put pen to paper to a new contract, while influential midfielder Laurie Wilson is expected to re-sign too. Mayman (28) joins Alistair Asher and Chris Timons on the growing list of former Yellows players who have re-joined the club as Legg shapes his squad for next season... Meanwhile it is still unknown whether defender Tony Gallimore will follow Mayman from Northwich to Town. The 35-year-old was on loan at Watnall Road for half of last season and had spoken about making his move permanent. Legg is keen to sign him on a permanent deal and also plans more talks with fellow defender Liam Powell and skipper Paul Dempsey when they return from their holidays".

BLUE SQUARE PREMIER NEWS

The bbc "Torquay have confirmed Exeter assistant boss Paul Buckle will lead the side's bid to escape the Conference. The 36-year-old, who played for the Gulls between 1994 and 1995, replaces sacked former boss Leroy Rosenior... And chief executive Colin Lee believes Buckle can lead the Gulls to success. '(He is) someone who shares our core beliefs' Lee told their official site".

This is Lincs says that "The takeover of Boston United must go through next week or it never will, chief executive Barrie Pierpoint has warned. Standing Alone Limited's acquisition of the debt-ridden club moved a step closer this week following positive talks with the game's authorities. Pilgrims chairman Jim Rodwell and Standing Alone met with the Football Association, Football League and Nationwide Conference... 'I've had a brief chat with them (Standing Alone) and they were happy with the outcome', Pierpoint told the Echo yesterday. 'I'll be speaking with them again over the weekend. The authorities wanted to know that things like finance will be in place for next season and everyone came away happy. There are still a few things that need tidying up, like payment to football creditors. Then, finally, Standing Alone need to purchase Lavaflow's shares. Things should be finalised next week. They have to be because we are getting to the stage where deadlines need to be met.'... Standing Alone and Lavaflow are still yet to agree on a price for the shares. Pierpoint admits the club cannot even think about installing ex-manager Steve Evans' successor until the takeover is rubber-stamped. But he did reveal the number of applications had soared to around a dozen. One is from former United player and assistant manager Neil Redfearn... Pilgrims' captain Paul Ellender has already championed the cause of his former team-mate. 'I would be absolutely delighted if Neil got the job', said the long-serving defender... The Nationwide Conference would not confirm whether Boston will take their place in the renamed Blue Square Premier League next season. The league will release a statement next week".

Confguide says that "Rushden & Diamonds boss Garry Hill has further strengthened his squad with the capture of midfielder Martin Foster and defender James Krause. Foster, a 29 year old midfielder, started his career at Leeds United... In July 2004 he signed for Halifax Town, where he again played over 100 matches, scoring 10 goals in the process. On transfer deadline day in January he signed on loan at Oxford United until the end of the season and played a part in Oxford's playoff push. Krause, a 20 year old defender, who can play at left-back or centre-back, has represented England at Under-17 level".

LEWIS AND ENGLAND "C"

ALTY SIGN DARREN TINSON

UNITED AT MOSS LANE

OLD BOYS

BLUE SQUARE NORTH NEWS

From Cumbria's NW Evening Mail we read that "Holker Street skipper Paul Jones has set his side a big target for next season. The Barrow AFC captain was one of few players to emerge from last season’s disastrous campaign with any credit. And the central defensive rock — who celebrates his 29th birthday on Sunday...said: 'We should get into the play-offs. It’s been proved this year that once you get in the play-offs, anyone has got a chance to get to the final and go up'... Jones, who was on non-contract terms last season, has yet to be offered a new deal with AFC, with manager Phil Wilson refusing to discuss the status of any players... He added: 'I want to stay, I like the club. Certain players have got a bit older and should be better, we definitely need another striker because we never scored enough goals... but we had a good defensive record... We just need a couple of experienced signings. But there’s nothing in the league. You look at Farsley, they’ve gone up and there was nothing in it, there’s just a very fine line... Even in the Droylsden game there was nothing between the sides and they won the league. Kettering, we could have beaten at home, even the top sides haven’t given us a beating. The line’s very fine, so hopefully we will get a good start and the confidence can take us forward from there'".

< a href="http://www.harrogatetoday.co.uk">Harrogate Today says that "20 year-old striker Lee Whittington looks set to be Harrogate Town's first summer signing with defender Chris Timons and 'keeper James Lindley heading through the exit door. Reports from Scarborough suggested a deal had been tied up with Whittington this week although the club could not confirm this on Wednesday. Definitely leaving the club is central-defender [and ex-Alty captain] Chris Timons who has returned to Hucknall Town and possibily ‘keeper James Lindley who was in talks with Alfreton Town. Assistant boss Lee Philpott says... 'The idea is that the players that leave only leave because we allow them to. We replace them with better players, that’s the idea. We’re hoping to bring another two, three or four players which will be a spread of different positions'. Pacy striker Whittington came through the youth system at Rotherham United... Philpott also explained the departure of Timons and seemingly Lindley. '(With Chris) it was a bit of everything and obviously Hucknall is right on his doorstep', said Philpott. 'He’s had some good times at Hucknall and it was just a bit of everything. It suited both parties and we’ve got a couple of people we’re looking at as replacements. It’s a similar scenario with James Lindley, he was looking at somewhere on his doorstep but we’ve got another goalkeeper lined up'”.

"Last week, it seemed that Southport’s newest acquisition was set to confirmed as Conall Murtagh, a highly-rated midfield player from Rhyl, after reports from North Wales said the Northern Ireland Under-21 international had agreed terms with the Sandgrounders. says Southport GB. "But those claims were then retracted by last season’s Welsh Premier runners-up, and in a bizarre twist of events, it was today reported that Murtagh is to make the shorter switch to Wrexham, of League Two, amid suggestions that Southport have agreed to ‘tear-up the contract.’ The Sandgrounders have remained tight-lipped on the player from the outset, but the strange scenario is outlined by the North Wales Daily Post: ‘Last week, Murtagh joined Conference North club Southport, but the Sandgrounders have now agreed to tear-up the contract to allow the former Rhyl and Connah’s Quay Nomads midfielder to resurrect his professional career with the Dragons'... Aged 21, he has been described as a player who is ‘certain to be a star of the future in league and International football'". Murtagh had a spell with Altrincham Reserves a year ago. "Meanwhile, Ciaran Donnelly and Sean Paterson, who both spent a spell on loan with Southport last season, have been released by Blackpool".

Murtagh's move is confirmed by NL Daily which says that "Northern Ireland under-21 international, Conall Murtagh, from Rosetta in South Belfast - a former Crusaders star - has won a two-year contract with Wrexham. It is a gilt-edged opportunity for Murtagh (pictured), who spent two years at Hearts, before going to the University in Manchester to study Biomedical Sciences. During his first two years in Manchester, he has played semi-professionally in the Welsh Premier League, playing in the UEFA Cup and coming second in the league with top side, Rhyl. 'This is a fantastic opportunity that I never saw coming. I am so lucky to be joining a wonderful club and I am delighted to be returning to professional football', said Murtagh. Murtagh, 21, who still has a year to complete at university with full support from Wrexham.. and received a number of accolades at the end of the season including being the youngest of ten Welsh Premier players nominated for the 2007 Player of the Year Awards... 'This is only the start and I have a lot of very hard work to do before I get anywhere near what I want to achieve in football'. said Murtagh".

A report on Vauxhall Motors from IC Cheshire says that "Defender Joe McMahon, [ex-Alty] midfielder Mike Garrity and keeper Sean Lake are the first three players retained by the Motormen for next season".

Kettering Town "Are delighted to announce the signing of 21 year old midfielder Callum Lloyd today. Nottingham-born Lloyd came through the ranks at Mansfield Town, and scored four goals in 41 appearances for the League Two club".

At Alfreton Town "Nicky Law has made his fourth signing in a week with the capture of talented left-sided midfielder David Cockerill who has been on contract with Stocksbridge Park Steels for the past two seasons. He began his career at Sheffield Wednesday".

The forum at Solihull Moors has a statement which says that "Exactly 8 years to the day after taking over Damson Park, Solihull Borough will merge with Moor Green to become Solihull Moors on June 1st. The ground will remain in the ownership of Solihull Borough with the new club taking out a long lease which has been approved by both Leagues and the F.A. The Borough will resign from the Southern League and the new club will take the place of Moor Green in the Conference North. The new Board will consist of ten Directors... The Manager of Solihull Moors will be Bob Faulkner who has yet to agree the make up of the remainder of his management team. The Board of Solihull Moors FC have announced Admission and Season Ticket Prices for season 2007/08: Adult admission will be £9.00, Concessions will be £4.00. Season Tickets will be, Adults £162, Concession £72".

Tamworth have "signed Chris Waldrum on a year's contract following his displays in the youth team last season. Chris has shown the way for all members of the youth set up here at Tamworth, if you work hard and listen you can earn the rewards. All of last year's youth team have been invited to attend pre-season, and the chance to play in the new reserve side that will complete in The Central Conference League. The management duo of Gary Mills and Darron Gee are hopeful that even more of last season's youth team may do enough pre-season to earn a contract with the club. With Marcus Ebdon the new Youth Development Officer at Tamworth F.C. it's exciting times for the youth players at the club".

BLUE SQUARE NATIONAL NEWS

Confguide says that "Forest Green Rovers will be receiving £47,500 as part of their original deal which took striker Kayode Odejayi to Cheltenham Town in 2003. It was confirmed today that the Robins have now completed the sale of the player to Championship club Barnsley for £200,000 and Rovers receive 25% of the sale, over the £10,000 that the Robins paid Forest Green... Secretary Colin Peake who was part of the Rovers tribunal team when the deal was thrashed out back in 2003, commented: 'We had faith in Kay that he would go on to play in a higher standard of football and he still has youth on his side to make it into the Premiership if he puts his mind to it'".

FORMER LEAGUE CHIEF EXECUTIVE JOINS ALTY'S BOARD

BLUE SQUARE NORTH NEWS

From the Shropshire Star we learn that "Goalkeeper Ryan Young believes his summer return to AFC Telford United could give him the chance to fulfil all his football ambitions. Young has already been told he will be first choice ‘keeper next season after agreeing to join the Bucks for a second time. The lively custodian has signed a one-year contract after his switch from Hednesford - and while he believes it will take time to consolidate in the Blue Square Northern, he is confident the potential exists to progress further".

And This is Lincs claims that "Former Boston United assistant manager Neil Redfearn has confirmed he has applied for the vacant manager's position at the York Street club... 'I have spoken to people at the club through my agent but now it is down to the club', said Redfearn. Boston United chairman Jim Rodwell is meeting today with officials from the Football League, Football Association and the Blue Square Premier League, in an effort to resolve the club's future". But "Francis Green is close to sealing his escape from Boston United after attracting interest from Walsall and Macclesfield. The former Lincoln City forward is due to hold talks with the clubs...'After not being paid for three months, Boston are in breach of contract, so I'm looking elsewhere', he told the Echo... Technically, Green still has a year left on his Boston contract, but admits it is worth nothing after playing without pay since February. It is believed Standing Alone Limited, the consortium on the verge of seizing control of the club, do intend to meet the unpaid wages of players and staff in full... 'The club needs sorting out - and soon', he declared. 'If the current situation carries on, there won't be any players left. I'm not the only one looking to leave'. Green admitted Steve Evans' departure as manager did not come as a shock... 'To be honest, I don't know why he didn't go earlier, like at the end of last season'". However former Altrincham defender and "Pilgrims' skipper Paul Ellender admits the club's players are awaiting the outcome of today's crisis talks with baited breath... 'Something has got to come of this meeting', declared Ellender. 'Things have dragged on long enough. The club have still not been in touch, but that doesn't surprise me any more'. Boston fans will also have an eye on the outcome of a Leeds United creditors' meeting tomorrow, when property tycoon Simon Morris will hope to take control of the Elland Road club. Morris' company, SR Morris Group, is behind Standing Alone. Morris is battling with current Leeds chairman Ken Bates to assume control of the club".

From Boston Today we learn that Steve Evans feels his resignation 'is a relief, to be honest. It has become more and more stressful over the past two weeks. The staff haven't been paid for three months and not a day was going by when I was not having to deal with my players, who are going through financial turmoil. I really fear there won't be a Boston United in the Conference next season... I'd like to be remembered as the man who took Boston United to the Football League and nearly helped them perform a miracle on the final day of the season', Evans added"

"Mark Cooper insists he will focus completely on management at Kettering Town – even though he will register himself as a player" according to the Northants Evening Telegraph. "The new Poppies boss enjoyed a playing role with Hinckley United in the second half of last season... And the 38-year-old hasn't ruled out the possibility of playing during the new Blue Square North campaign. He said: 'I will register myself as a player simply because we will have a small squad. I will definitely play in the reserve games and in others if I need to. But my main focus will be on managing and coaching. Most people will know that I played at the same level last season and I could probably still do a job. But I was brought here to manage the team and that is what I will concentrate on'. Cooper, meanwhile, is hoping he will get some definite answers in the next week from some of the Poppies' out-of- contract players... Former Northampton Town defender Tommy Jaszczun has become Cooper's first signing. But any new faces may not arrive until the end of next month. 'I may well wait until the end of June to do my business', he added. 'It's silly season at the moment. Players are asking for silly money and I am not going to get involved in that'".

Meanwhile NL Daily says that "Kettering Town have announced that Gianfranco Zola has confirmed that he will play for them in their A-Line pre-season tournament on Sunday, July 15th 2007. Kettering`s managing director Kevin Meikle said: 'This is a fantastic coup for the club. He was voted Chelsea's best ever player, and is currently the Italian under-21 manager and we sure our supporters are looking forward to him pulling on a Poppies' shirt'. Meikle added: 'We can also confirm that Christian Karembeu – a two-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid and European Championship and World Cup winner with France - will be joining Zola. We will confirm other names shortly, although six other internationals have provisionally confirmed their availability for this date.

At Nuneaton Borough "Rob Oddy has agreed to stay". He was the manager's player of the year last season.

Following Droylsden's promotion to the Blue Square National, it is believed that Tameside Council is donating £60,000 to the Bloods as they are now the highest placed club in the Council's area. This means a reduction in Council funding for other Tameside clubs, Stalybridge Celtic and Hyde United.

BLUE SQUARE NATIONAL NEWS

"Woking have signed central defender Paul Lorraine from Ryman Premier Division side AFC Wimbledon. The 23-year-old, who moves on a free transfer, has signed a two-year deal and becomes the Kingfield club's fourth summer signing. Cards manager Frank Gray told BBC Southern Counties Radio: 'He's got decent pace and first and foremost he is a defender - that's something I feel we need'. Gray has already signed Yeading duo Marvin Morgan and Bradley Quamina, and Sutton's Matt Gray".

Conference champions "Dagenham & Redbridge have made their second signing of the summer by bringing in Crawley defender Magnus Okuonghae, reports BBC Essex. Okuonghae started his career with Fulham before moving on to Rushden & Diamonds, Aldershot Town, St Albans City and Crawley Town. The Nigeria-born 21-year-old has been capped by the England National Game XI". He scored a memorable own goal for Altrincham last season.

N W NEWS

UniBond First North will comprise: Bamber Bridge, Bradford Park Avenue, Bridlington Town, Chorley, Clitheroe, Curzon Ashton, FC United of Manchester, Garforth Town, Harrogate Railway, Lancaster City, Mossley, Newcastle Blue Star, Ossett Albion, Radcliffe Borough, Rossendale United, Skelmersdale United, Wakefield, Woodley Sports

UniBond First South will comprise: Alsager Town, Belper Town, Brigg Town, Cammell Laird, Carlton Town, Colwyn Bay, Goole, Grantham Town, Gresley Rovers, Kidsgrove Athletic, Nantwich Town, Quorn, Retford United, Sheffield, Shepshed Dynamo, Spalding United, Stocksbridge PS, Warrington Town.

The League's decision to go for a North-South split rather than an East-West divide means that clubs such as Colwyn Bay, will face lengthy cross-country journeys to the likes of Brigg, Goole and Spalding, which will also add significantly to the affected clubs' travel bills - as well as the costs for their supporters.