PRESTWICH Heys are preparing for a return to training in readiness for their new life in the North West Counties League Premier Division.

Manager Matt Barnes is looking to strengthen his squad in the coming weeks and has also moved to tie down some of his current key personnel.

The Heys boss has confirmed that keeper Russell Saunders and prolific striker Jack Coop have both agreed to remain at Adie Moran Park for the forthcoming campaign.

Nathan Emery, Nathan Strong, Jamie Hill, Joe Rothwell, Scott Cullen, Niall Sultan and Anthony Potts have also committed to the club for another season.

Heys have also announced that their shirts will continue to bear the name of the Sam’s Gift Charity next season.

The charity supports teenagers and young adults with cancer by providing journey boxes to help them through their illness, in memory of Sam Nicholls who died in 2014 after a long battle with T Cell Lymphoma.

The boxes are provided to teenagers and young adults, currently battling cancer at The Christie Hospital, where Sam underwent his treatment.

Meanwhile, Prestwich Heys Youth side were left kicking their heels when, due to unforeseen circumstances, their North West Youth Alliance Division Three Cup Final with AFC Blackpool, due to be played last Sunday, was postponed.

It has been rescheduled for this Sunday at Burscough FC (noon kick-off).

The match represents an opportunity to finish their already fine debut season with some silverware.

Blackpool go into the game having beaten Heys 2-0 at Adie Moran Park last Tuesday to book their place in the final and they remain unbeaten all season.

Heys had already secured their place but missed out on top spot as their first defeat of their cup campaign allowed Blackpool to leapfrog them and finish top of the qualifying league.