In addition to the previously announced player and assistant manager, Martin Lenihan, Jon Welsh joins as assistant manager and Pat Delaney at physio. Adrian Curtis (aka Slugger!) remains as kit man.

We spoke with with the new line-up as we look ahead to the new season.

On the new members of the team, John Rendell says: "Jon is a retired school teacher and vastly experienced manager from lower leagues with great knowledge of local football. He has bags of energy and a real desire to be working with the lads this year. And I'm absolutely delighted to get Pat to the club. He is a hugely respected and uber professional man who will give the lads everything they need to ensure they are fit and ready to perform."

John continues: "Lens is a vastly experienced player with great knowledge of all levels of football. He is a local lad who has a passion to do well for the club, tremendous fitness levels, a natural leader and a professional and energetic coach. He and Jack Dancey really stepped up last season and played a huge role in the clubs promotion. And what can we say about Slugger?! He is a dedicated club man and very popular member of the squad who carries out the important off field bits that are essential and at times goes unnoticed. An invaluable asset to our club!"

We also spoke with the other members of the line-up to get their thoughts on the new season...

Jon Welsh: "I am grateful for the opportunity to join Paulton Rovers as an assistant manager. It’s a great club with a rich history, a fantastic fan base as well as a club that has real potential. Renz and I did our FA coaching courses together and I was delighted when he asked me to be part of the management team. I hope to help him and the lads’ transition back into the Southern League this season, though it will be tough. I have already seen the support that the club is giving Renz and the team and hope that the supporters will be patient and get behind us in the upcoming season. Up the Rovers!"

Pat Delaney: "Its been great to get to meet the lads in pre-season and I hope we hit the ground running in the Southern League. Its also amazing to see the work being put in by everyone. Good people trying to do things right. Lots of work on and off the pitch!"

Martin Lenihan: "It is a great feeling knowing that we will be returning for pre-season to prepare for a season back in the Southern League. The league has some incredible teams in it and we are excited to see a Paulton side back competing where we feel we belong. We will have some new faces coming in and some familiar ones coming back. I am sure the supporters are excited to be behind the boys and continue on from the success of last season."

Slugger: "So happy to be back doing the job I love at the club! Its great to be back in the Southern League and although it will be tough, I'm sure we can do well!"

Manager John has the final word: "This team have been working tirelessly together since May and as a collective ticks a lot of boxes. Ultimately they will give the squad everything they need to ensure they are ready and prepared for matchday. We look forward to starting to work with the lads in pre-season."

The new new team line-up...

Photos: Jenny Short