RADCLIFFE Borough boss Danny Johnson has made his first signing of the summer by snapping up defender Jamie Forbes from Atherton Laburnum Rovers.

The right-back cleaned up at the Crilly Park awards evening earlier this month taking the manager's player, supporters player, and kit man's player of the year accolades, and Johnson is delighted the versatile player has joined the ranks at Stainton Park.

"He's a player I've admired for a long time, so I'm pleased we've got him," said Johnson.

"He's a very good defender, he's strong, got pace and is good in the air.

"His best position is at right full-back but he can play at centre-half if needed and could probably play at left-back too, so he will give us good strength across the back."

The Boro manager has also been boosted by the news that versatile defender Richard Smith, midfielder Matthew Davies and goalkeeper Chris Cheetham will remain at the club next season.

"Matt was my first signing when I took over in February so it's really pleasing that he wants to stay, while Ric and Chris were both key players for us last season."

In what has been a busy week for the Stainton Park outfit, the Boro have also announced six pre-season friendlies ahead of the start of their Evo-Stik Division One North campaign, with the visit of Championship side Huddersfield Town and newly-promoted League One outfit Bury the pick of the ties.

Town, who finished in 16th place in the league travel to Stainton Park on July 17, while the Shakers, who clinched promotion on the final day of last season, visit a week later on July 25.

A derby clash with local rivals Ramsbottom United has been scheduled for July 21 before Evo-Stik Premier Division champions FC United visit on August 4 ahead of their first season in Conference North.

Boro have also confirmed two away games with a trip to North West Counties side Irlam FC scheduled for July 28 and a visit to Manchester League Premier Division side Prestwich Heys on August 1.