Abbey Hey manager Barrie Walker has confirmed the re-signing of seven players from his Vodkat League Challenge Cup winning side of 2009/2010.

David Chapman, Lee Knowles, Matthew Kemp, Sam Jones, Wayne Welbeck, Darren Evans and Sean Devlin all signed on the dotted line prior to Abbey's friendly with Barnoldswick Town.

Barrie said, "Though we're sad to lose players of the calibre of Daniel Cocks, Gareth Wager and John Hardy from last season's side, I'm confident that using these seven lads as a nucleus for the squad, plus the addition of local talent from our recruitment sessions, will stand us in good stead for the forthcoming campaign in the Vodkat First Division. 

"The recruitment drive was so successful that we are in the process of setting up a reserve side in order to keep the youngsters who show promise but aren't quite ready for the first team at the club, and to increase interest in Abbey Hey FC from the local community".