Bookies have installed former assistant boss Malcolm Thompson and ex-Tranmere man Ronnie Moore as the favourites for the vacant Chester post. Owner Stephen Vaughan had to deny rumours last week that he had moved for Scot Thompson before Mark Wright left the club. Darlington have lost two more players as the impasse over their takeover goes on. Franz Burgmeier and Robin Hulbert are the latest to depart.
Accrington have beaten the Quakers to the signing of midfielder Luke Joyce for geographical reasons. Macclesfield have offered released Crewe midfielder Colin Daniel a contract for next season. Lincoln have lost midfielder Lee Beevers to Colchester on a free. Newcastle Blue Star have announced that the club is to fold after the FA confirmed they remained liable to a £61,000 FSIF grant on their old ground. The club have no way to pay the money and have withdrawn from all competition.
The Conference have issued a statement following Setanta's failure confirming that they are searching for a new TV deal. Altrincham's website says the Setanta money was 20% of their income, but they had not budgeted for it. Bury striker Andy Bishop is not a target for Carlisle, according to boss Greg Abbott.
Ebbsfleet are recommending to supporters that they accept a joint £80,000 offer for Darius Charles and Michael Gash, reported to be from Luton. Selling the pair would nearly double the club's wage budget for the coming season. Shrewsbury have confirmed that defender Darren Moss has rejected a new contract with the club and will leave. Moss previously cost Crewe £170,000. The club have not heard from in-demand midfielder Ben Davies as he is on holiday.