1874 Northwich have announced another stack of new signings and retentions this week.

Wayne Goodison and Paul Bowyer have added some strength up front with the capture of Josh Maris and Gabriel Ellis, while Eric Byrne adds to the numbers in midfield as preparations continue for the start of the 2023/24 season in Northern Premier League West.

Northwich-raised teenager Maris has been brought in after recently leaving Chester FC’s academy, where he featured prominently for the youth side.

He had an initial taste of senior football with Winsford United in the North West Counties League Premier Division last season.

Liverpool-based Byrne, 17, caught the eye during his first year in senior football last season with Runcorn Town.

He was formerly with the Tranmere Rovers youth academy.

Formby-born Ellis came through the ranks at Accrington Stanley before moving into senior football with spells at Skelmersdale United, Ashton Athletic and Litherland REMYCA.

Meanwhile, it is confirmed that versatile full-back Ollie Broe and key midfielder Jack Irlam will be back in 1874 colours for the new term.

Broe made 22 appearances in his first season with 1874, spending time at both left-back and right-back, with his versatility proving a strong attribute for our team to utilise.

Irlam is now the third longest serving player for 1874 and his experience is considered crucial for the team, as it was last season when he filled in up front for the final months of the season and scored some important goals in the successful battle to avoid relegation.

1874, who were defeated 2-1 at West Didsbury and Chorlton in Saturday’s friendly, continue their build-up at home to Salford City tonight, Tuesday.

They will then visit Wythenshawe AFC on Saturday and host Atherton Collieries at Townfield next Tuesday.

The club are holding a ‘meet the manager’ event at Northwich Cricket Club on Thursday, 8pm start.