THREE of Bury's championship winning Under-19 squad have been offered professional deals for next season.

Defender Jon Cartledge, practically a first team squad member already after a successful introduction to league football, has accepted a twelve month deal, while tricky striker Daniel Douglas-Pringle and gritty midfielder Steve Maden have the option to take up six-month contracts.

There was disappointment though for the other third year scholar, centre half Ryan Bernard, who has been released after reaching the end of his apprenticeship.

Head of Youth Neil Hanks - who has overseen the recent development of the players in question - believes the three offered deals have a great chance to prove their worth in 2004/05.

"With the first team squad for next season potentially as small as 17 players due to finance, this is a massive opportunity for the lads to make an impression," he said.

"I'm delighted they've been offered deals, and with the likelihood of injuries and suspensions having an impact at some point, they could be in with a great chance of getting into the team."

There was sympathy for the one youngster to miss out, as he added: "It's unfortunate for Ryan that we're fairly well covered in defence.

"With the difficult financial situation it was on the cards that the club was going to be unlikely to be able to offer him anything.

"But he's a good player and a useful asset, we wish him well in his future career."