Joining Heys full time, having figured in recent games, are James Brookes, Nathan Battersby and Matthew Grimshaw who were all on dual registration with Atherton Collieries.

Brooks spent a couple of seasons in the youth set-up at FC United of Manchester. The Atherton based defender has also had spells at Daisy Hill and Atherton LR before joining Colls where he played as a defender, midfielder and striker.

Battersby is an experienced midfielder who represented Bolton Wanderers U21’s. He was released from the Whites by Owen Coyle and was snapped up by Championship side Bristol City on an 18 month contract. He returned home in 2013 and signed for Atherton LR before moving across to Colls with Manager Michael Clegg.

Grimshaw is a tall centre-half who joined Collieries in 2013 from Salford City. He had a spell at Irlam when he was younger and he has also featured for Heys old Manchester League rivals Hindsford.

Lyons said “I am delighted to have James, Nathan and Matt on board. It shows the direction in which the club is heading in acquiring their services. All three played a big part in Colls landing two Counties titles in three years and are great additions”.

The Heys boss also revealed that another big signing is imminent, which he expects to complete in time for Friday’s home game with Chadderton (7.45pm)