Grantham duo to stay on

After reaching the play-offs in 2017/18, a much changed squad struggled under new manager Ian Culverhouse, and he was eventually replaced by Richard Thomas, who himself left in February.

Rawden said: "We were delighted to reach the goal of staying up, but the way it happened wasn't how we wanted.

“Coming in mid-February gave us no chance to build what we wanted, we had to beg, steal and borrow players who were available.

“We were hit with a barrage of injuries once the registration window closed, to a few key players and losing Callum Coyle was a huge blow.

“Despite all of that the club stayed up and that was the first of what we hope are positive steps for the club.

"When Nigel asked us to continue it was an easy yes. We are both local to the club and want to continue what we have started. We've been backed home and away by a very loyal and vocal group of supporters.

“They've understood the job we had ahead of us, they got behind us all the way.

"We need at least 6 or 7 players added to the squad to make us a lot more competitive.

“We didn't score enough goals, that's the first area to improve for us. We'll be talking to the current squad as soon as possible and in that regard, some conversations have already been had.

“We've already made offers to some new players. We will keep these close to our chest until they sign.”

Chairman Nigel Wedgwood added: "The rebuilding plan has already begun, with emphasis on forming a strong exciting and consistent new side.

“We will release season ticket prices next week and planned friendlies over the coming weeks when they are agreed. As Paul says, we'll announce any signings when it's possible.”