LANCASTER Bombers have signalled their intent ahead of the 2006 Surridge Northern Cricket League season by snap-ping up Andy Flintoff's brother.

Chris Flintoff has signed in at Lune Road after performing magnificently in the Palace Shield for Penwortham last season.

Flintoff smashed more than 800 runs in the top flight of the Palace Shield and is more than capable of making a splash in the Northern League.

"It's a great signing for us," says Lune Road cricket manager David Speak. "Chris comes with a good pedigree and someone who has scored runs in the manner he has should be able to compete at Northern League level."

Lancaster beat off a host of Northern League clubs to sign Flintoff and they have also stated their intent of a Lancashire Cup spot challenge after persuading Blackpool skipper Tim Barry to leave Stanley Park.

That is a massive shock with the ultra-successful Barry already confirmed as skipper with Luke Phillips happy to stand down to concentrate on his batting.

"Tim will be our captain and will take charge of coaching and that is great news," adds Speak.

"David Heywood will be vice-captain and we should have a good side for next season, especially as our young players now have an extra year of experience behind them.

"We are really hoping to challenge next season for a place in the Lancashire Cup and Chris and Tim can help us to achieve that goal."

Speak has had a busy week and has also signed Patel from Blackburn Northern.

"We have a couple more irons in the fire," adds Speak. "But we are already looking to be a stronger side than last season.

"And we can't wait for the nets to start."