News Round-Up

Newport have lost the services of striker Elliott Buchanan after he turned down a new deal to sign for Basingstoke instead. The 23 year old netted five times in 38 games last season. Stockport have agreed to allow local side Woodley Sports to rename as Stockport Sports. The ambitious side have named Peter Withe as manager but were blocked in a move to become Stockport FC.

Alfreton boss Nicky Law has warned that his side will find it tough to survive in the Conference this season. He told the BBC: "The game has got bigger. There are lots of clubs chucking money at players. Some wages are staggering. I am hearing of players picking up huge signing-on fees as well as appearance money and other add-ons, but that is an avenue we can't go down."

Chester have been installed as favourites to win Conf North at the first attempt. Another reformed side, Halifax, are second favourites. In Conf South Dover are favourites with relegated duo Bath and Hayes & Yeading both rated as mid-table prospects. Kidderminster boss Steve Burr says defender Tom Marshall is expected to leave the club after securing a better deal elsewhere. The former Tamworth man played 23 times last term, establishing himself as a regular late in the season.

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