With the new season less than a month away, manager Steve Wilkes continues to strengthen the Ramsbottom United squad, both on and off the pitch, writes Tony Cunningham.

Following the arrival of former Chorley centre back Andy Teague last week, the Rams have signed Scott Sephton - brother of the player-of-the-season Luke.

The 33-year-old is another player well known in local non-league circles having played for the likes of Bootle, Clitheroe, Atherton Collieries, Pilkington, Stalybridge Celtic and Warrington Town.

“Scott’s another great signing for the club and one I’ve chased for a while”, said Wilkes.

“His experience alongside Andy Teague will be invaluable as last season our defending wasn’t good enough.

“He’s another leader both on and off the pitch and I’m really looking forward to seeing him play with his brother Luke”.

Scott also expressed his joy at the move to the HWRS and said: “I’m really looking forward to the new challenge and seeing where we can go this season”.

“There are massive plans behind the scenes and the path the club are looking to take over the next few years is something that interests me and something that I really want to be a part of.

“I can’t wait to get going!”

Off the pitch, Wilkes has added to his coaching staff by bringing in Rob Sadler.

Rob, 38, started his coaching career at Atherton Collieries before a spell here at Rammy under Mark Fell. He then joined Steve Wilkes at Northwich Victoria before becoming Assistant Manager at West Didsbury & Chorlton.