TOP scorer Ben Wharton heads a quartet of players who have left Radcliffe Borough as the summer squad revolution takes place.

Wharton has joined Evo-Stik Division One North rivals Warrington Town for a nominal fee and he has been joined through the exit door by veteran Darren Sheridan and Steve Howson, who is returning to Australia just days after being named captain for the 2013/14 campaign.

The departing four is completed by defender Shaun Connor who has been made available for a move ahead of a return to university in the autumn.

It is a summer of change at Stainton Park with skipper Mark Jones and Tom Brooks also heading for pastures new.

But Boro boss Kevin Glendon says the recruitment plans for the make-up of a new squad is also in full swing.

Commenting on the latest departure of 23-year-old Connor announced on Tuesday, Glendon said: “Shaun looks like he will be going back to university in Sheffield to continue his studies which is the most important aspect of his future career.

“We felt it was the right time and would suit both the club and the player to inform all the clubs in the league “We need to move on with our own recruitment which Shaun is aware of and I am sure we will receive some interest for a young player who has amassed a good number of appearances for his age and can develop further.”

Wharton’s exit to Warrington means Boro lose a young player who netted 18 goals in 46 games last season.

But Glendon believes his move also benefits both parties.

He went on: “Ben has been a model player to work with who always works hard and conducts himself well in and around the club.

“I am sure he will develop the more experienced he becomes.

“It was a good deal for all concerned.”

Howson’s departure was probably the least expected so soon after the club announced his appointment as captain.

Glendon added: “We knew this might be the case, we wanted him to know our thoughts if he stayed and made him aware we would make him captain.

“We wish him good health and good luck and after a long chat can understand his reasons fully. It is a great opportunity for him and he is always welcome back at the club, he knows this.”

Meanwhile, Sheridan, 44, moves on after a short-term return to Stainton Park to help out at the end of last season.