Runcorn Linnets' preparations for next season have received an important boost with the news that Paul Eastup will be returning to the post of club secretary.

Peter Cartledge had already announced his intention to step down from his club secretarial duties at the end of the 2021-22 campaign.

This will allow Peter to concentrate on the club chairmanship, a position to which he was appointed by the Trust Board in February of this year.

Peter said: "I have enjoyed my time as secretary and particularly the experience of working closely on team matters with our manager Calum McIntyre.

"It was clear as soon as I became chairman that the demands of both roles were too much for one person but I wanted to see the season through as club secretary, to finish what I started and to make the handover as straight forward as possible.

"We are very fortunate that someone as experienced as Paul readily expressed an interest in taking on again the position of club secretary, which he performed so well previously.

"His knowledge, experience, commitment and diligence will be vital to us going forward. I know full well that he will do a brilliant job."

Paul returned as a club director in February, being co-opted as part of the finance team after a 13-month absence from the Trust Board, on which he had previously spent more than 10 years.

Club secretary from July 2019 to January 2021, Paul is also a club vice-president and former vice-chairman.

Paul said: "During my time away from the board, I really missed the day-to-day involvement with the club, although I was still very much around as a supporter.

"I am delighted that my colleagues have agreed to me returning as club secretary.

"I very much look forward to liaising with the management team and players, and the other football secretaries in the club, while making or renewing acquaintances throughout the Northern Premier League and the FA."