RAMSBOTTOM United took their summer signings up to a magnificent seven following the arrival of former Blackburn Rovers trainee George Pierce.

The 20-year-old Bury-born midfielder started at the Shakers academy before taking up a scholarship at Ewood Park.

He left last summer and gave Rammy boss Mark Fell a glimpse of his potential in a 45-minute cameo in Saturday's friendly against Haslingden St Mary's, when Pierce rattled the crossbar with a shot and show good ability on the ball.

“George is a class act,” said Fell.

“He’s superb on the ball and we’ve seen plenty enough of him to know he will more than handle the physicality of the league.

"He was recommended to me by Gareth Seddon, who trained with him at Salford when he was younger.

"He fits into our group really well and we’re expecting him to have a very successful Rammy career.”

Pierce joins a number of new faces in the Rammy ranks, including Glossop winger Ben Richardson.

The 28-year-old wide man brings and impressive CV and bags of quality to the Riverside, hitting double figures in goals for the Hillmen last season and a remarkable number of assists, including three against the Rams.

"He was a key target for us from the get-go," said Fell.

“We sat down with him over a month ago and although in the end it’s taken a bit of doing, Ben has impressed me with his professional approach.

"He's a top player in this league and an excellent character off the pitch."

The Manchester-based school teacher was very much in demand over the summer after announcing his Glossop departure, and the Rams had to fend off suitors from the Evo-Stik Premier Division for his signature.

Richardson was the second former Glossop player to join the Rams, following team-mate Eddie Moran to the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium.

Rams' pre-season programme continues at Caernarfon Town on Saturday (3pm), before the visit of Fleetwood next Friday (July 28, 7.45pm and a trip to AFC Blackpool (3pm) on Saturday, August 5.