EDDIE MAURICE-JONES believes Gresford Athletic have made a “statement of intent” by completing the signings of Barry Torrence and Corey Smart.

Attacking duo Torrence and Smart head to Clappers Lane from Queen’s Park and Flint Town United respectively as Maurice-Jones looks to add firepower to his squad.

The former Rhyl and Denbigh boss declared: “It is a statement of intent to bring both players to the club who are highly thought of in the area.

“They’re great lads who will fit in well with the group.”

Gresford have also been boosted by the news that 15 of last season’s squad have joined Josh Griffiths in agreeing to stay at the club for the 2020/21 campaign.

Last season’s top scorer Jake Eyre and vice-captain Jack Chaloner are amongst those staying with the club.

Kieran Evans is also staying put at Gresford, although his brother, Jordan, has decided to leave Airbus after just one season, opting to move to Newtown.

The versatile former Wrexham man will remain in the top-flight, saying: "Delighted to sign for @NewtownAFC for the coming season! Hopefully not too far away.”

Holywell Town, meanwhile, have announced Neal Colakoglu as their new chairman, replacing Sean Elliott, who has stood down to concentrate on being the Wellmen’s licensing officer.

Colakoglu, who played key role in Prestatyn’s Cymru North title success, has made the move to Halkyn Road, where he’s relishing the chance to help John Haseldin's Holywell progress.

He said: “I am excited about the opportunity to work with the existing management team to take this club forward.

“The club is already in a healthy state and I am sure we can bring success to the club both on and off the pitch in the coming seasons.

"Having gained promotion, we will now work to develop the playing staff with Johnny for the start of next season to stabilise the club in the Cymru North.”