ROSSENDALE United are coming out of the doldrums and gearing up for a promotion assault next season.

The Dark Lane outfit are revamping things on and off the pitch, with a new board of directors and a host of new players, in an effort to earn UniBond Premier Division status.

Manager Jim McBride has already snapped up left-sided player Rob Woodhead from Hyde United, former Rochdale central midfielder Scott Wilson, reclaimed centre half Jordan Rispin after a season at neighbours Ramsbottom United and signed centre half Karl Bell from McBride's former club St Helens.

And the Dale boss is confident his new-look side can make a huge impact in the First Division after a disappointing campaign last year.

"We knew we needed a clear-out at the end of last season," said McBride, who has already seen Jason Heffernan, Matt Holdsworth, Matt Woods, Ged Smith and Craig Sargeson all leave the club.

"Ged has gone to live in Australia, which is a blow for us because he did well last season, and Craig has left us after several years' service," he continued.

"I had a chat with him and he's decided it's time he moved on.

"I wish the lad well because he was great for me last season. He has a great attitude and I've got nothing but praise for him.

"Wherever he goes I hope he does well."

McBride also revealed he is in talks with four other potential signings, including former Preston and Rochdale star Graeme Atkinson. But there could be complications concerning the midfielder as he is still under contract with UniBond Premier Division side Lancaster City.

Nevertheless, Rossendale have a good pre-season to look forward to with friendlies against Blackburn Rovers, Oldham Athletic, Great Harwood Town and Southport to name a few.

And with one or two more signings under his belt, McBride believes they have a promising season ahead.

"Our objective is to finish high enough to get promoted," he said.

"We desperately want to be up there, challenging. We want to be in the top part of the table and pushing to get promoted and we honestly feel we can do that.

"There were plenty of games last season when we weren't good enough. We need to be pushing next season.

"We've brought some very good players in and if I can get one or two more of the players I'm speaking to I will be more than happy."

The full list of Rossendale's pre-season friendlies is as follows: Bacup Borough, away, July 19 (kick-off 3pm); Blackburn Rovers, home, July 23 (kick-off 7.30pm); Congleton Town, away, July 26 (kick-off 3pm); Great Harwood Town, away, July 29 (kick-off 7.30pm); Rochdale, home, July 31 (kick-off 7.30-pm - TBC); Leigh RMI, home, August 2 (kick-off 3pm); Oldham Athletic, home, August 5 (kick-off 7.30pm); Warrington Town, away, August 7 (kick-off 7.30pm); Southport, home, August 9 (kick-off 3pm).

The club is looking for match sponsors for their friendlies. Anyone interested can contact secretary Kevin Procter on 07973 296419.

Also, any local players interested in having trials with Rossendale United are welcome to attend pre-season training. Sessions will be held at Dark Lane every Tuesday and Thursday evening from July 1 at 7pm.