As Ramsbottom United prepare for their first campaign in Evo-Stik Premier, the vast majority of the squad have signed on again at the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium.

Many of those re-signing are now into their sixth season with the East Lancashire club, showing a remarkable example of loyalty in an age where players move from club to club on an annual basis.

Goalkeeper Grant Shenton remains one of the top custodians in the league, whilst in front of him, defenders Steve Howson and Lee Pugh have also signed on the dotted line.

Midfield dynamo Gary Stopforth takes up the captain's armband, and he will be partnered by the equally industrious Scott Burton and Grant Spencer.

Up front reliable goal-scoring machine Jon Robinson and Lee Gaskell look forward to terrorising many new defences this season, with Dominic Smalley providing his usual assists from the wing.

Midfielder Joel Pilkington is now fit and ready after breaking his arm during the latter part of last season, while central defender and the fans’ player-of-the-year, Billy Priestley has also re-signed.

Having spent the last couple of months in America playing for New Orleans Jesters, winger Phil Dean and the versatile Jordan Hulme have now returned to the fold in time for the big kick-off on August 16, when the Rams entertain Kings Lynn Town.

Also joining the Rams is former Bamber Bridge forward Tom Williams, although captain Danny Warrender has left to join Salford City.

Full-back Owen Roberts has also chosen to move on, while on-loan keeper Martin Fearon, who stood in for the injured Shenton at the end of last season, has signed for league rivals Skelmersdale United.

Club captain Andy Dawson remains on the long-term injury list.

The build-up to the new season continues with two home friendlies at the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium in the coming week.

A Bury XI are the visitors tomorrow evening, while local rivals Radcliffe Borough travel to the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium on Tuesday. Both games kick off at 7.30, and admission is £7 adults, and £3.50 concessions.