BURY Football Club has made a senior appointment off the pitch in recent weeks by bringing in business development director Matt Hanson.

Mr Hanson, who has a background in travel is responsible for the commercial side of the club and he has already hosted a networking evening for local businesses ahead of the recent AFC Wimbledon fixture.

Rossendale-based Mr Hanson is keen to engage with local businesses.

He said: “I am a local lad, who has a strong network of local business contacts.

"As a football club, we need to be more pro-active and engaging with the business and wider community and I want to bridge that gap.

"We are fortunate to have so many prospering businesses in the local area and football is a great way to entertain and showcase your business.

"I am based at the Energy Check Stadium at Gigg Lane, so welcome any interest in working in partnership with the football club.”