AMBITIOUS Morecambe have received a double boost as they target promotion to the Football League once more in the coming season.

Christie Park favourite Garry Thompson and long-serving utility player Dave McKearney have both signed new deals to keep them at the club.

Kendal born Thompson - a product of the Morecambe soccer academy - has negotiated a two year extension to his contract, pledging himself to Christie Park until May 2005, while McKearney has agreed terms for a one year extension to his deal.

McKearney, who made 37 league appearances last season and who holds Morecambe's appearance record in the Conference, says: " Last year was a brilliant season, with the play offs and the trip to Ipswich, I hope next season we go one better and achieve promotion."

Meanwhile, a second bid from Chester City for midfielder Adriano Rigoglioso, has been turned down by the Morecambe board.

Chester manager Mark Wright upped his original five figure offer for the midfielder by making the Shrimps a cash-plus-player offer.

But the Morecambe directors have stood by manager Jim Harvey's pledge that no-one would be leaving the club as the push for promotion continues.

Chairman Peter McGuigan says: There has been a lot of speculation about our players but I can say that no-one will be leaving unless a staggering fee is involved.

"We have the nucleus of a very good team that I am sure will be in the top five next season - and we will hopefully be signing another two players in the next few days."