Ashton moves to Magpies

Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Chorley have completed the signing of keeper Sam Ashton from Skelmersdale United.

The former FC United of Manchester keeper, pictured, was outstanding for the Premier Division's new boys last season, playing a vital role in Skem's NPL First Division North championship campaign.

Chorley boss Garry Flitcroft moved to secure Ashton on Tuesday after current number one Jack Cudworth was linked with a move away from Victory Park. The two will now compete for the keeper's jersey next season.

Before joining Skelmersdale two years ago, the 26-year-old made more than 200 appearance for FCUM after starting his career at Bolton Wanderers.

Ashton also enjoyed a brief spell at Southport and is loking forward to another fresh challenge.

He said: "Chorley are a massive club in Non-League football with so much potential and Garry sold it to me by saying he wants to win the league. The Northern Premier League isn't one I've won yet so it would be great to do that with the Magpies."

Tom Baker has agreed a new deal which will keep the midfielder at the Magpies for next season. Baker made a massive impact last season following his arrival from Ashton United, collecting several man of the match awards and a player of the month prize during the campaign.