News round up

Alex Fletcher donning the captain's armband as AFC Telford United drew 1-1 with Hereford at Edgar Street last season

AFC Telford United have confirmed captain Alex Fletcher will remain at the club for 2026/27. The 29-year-old midfielder is the first player to commit to a new deal as Kevin Wilkin builds on a promising season back at step two.

Fletcher led the Bucks for much of the 2025/26 campaign, helping secure a top-half National League North finish alongside FA Cup and FA Trophy runs. His leadership, consistency and key goals made him a central figure, with the club calling him a “bedrock” of the side.

Radcliffe have made their first summer signing with the addition of striker Max McCarthy from Congleton Town on a one-year deal with an option. The 23-year-old arrives after a prolific spell in the NPL West, scoring 52 goals in 84 appearances for his hometown club since rejoining in 2023/24.

McCarthy, who has also played for Stoke City, FC United of Manchester and Stafford Rangers, steps up to National League North looking to make his mark. He said the move was a “no brainer” after speaking with manager Bernard Morley, calling the chance to test himself in step two a “big challenge”.

The Boost the Budget campaign at Darlington has made a strong early start, raising £70,000 in just 16 days from more than 250 pledges. The initiative, which helps fund the club’s playing budget, has already reached almost 40 per cent of its £180,000 target.

Supporters have once again responded in impressive numbers to the fan-owned club’s annual appeal, which has previously raised over £1.1m in total across nine years.

Macclesfield have continued their summer recruitment by signing AFC Fylde full-back Lincoln McFayden following the Coasters’ National League North title-winning campaign. The 24-year-old joins former Fylde team-mate George Wilson at the Leasing.com Stadium as the side continue building for another promotion push.

McFayden came through the academies at Preston North End and Swansea City, making his senior debut for the Swans in the Carabao Cup against Reading. He made 24 appearances and scored four goals for Fylde last season, including featuring in their 5-1 win over Macclesfield in December.