RELEGATED Leek have snapped up Greg Willott to spearhead their bid for an instant return to the North Staffs and South Cheshire League Premier Division.

The 29-year-old left-arm paceman has moved from Norton to Highfield and will link up with Mo Hussain, the club's registered overseas player.

Willott was Staffordshire's leading wicket-taker last summer with 34, so his signing is quite a coup for the Leek club, whose merger with Staffordshire Moorlands was approved at this week's annual meeting.

Leek lost their place in the Premier Division of the NSSCL for the first time last season and also lost leading wicket-taker Richard Cooper, who has moved to Alsager.

Chairman Brian Mellor, pictured right, whose appointment as captain has also been confirmed, said: "We heard of Greg's availability and are delighted to have him on board.

"Apart from his ability as a player, his coaching skills will benefit the younger seam bowlers at the club.

"We are delving into the unknown in going into Division One, so Greg's knowledge of the standard will be a massive help.

"Our aim is to play in the top half of the league, and both Greg and Mo will make us more competitive.

"When we sat down to discuss what we needed this year we came up with a coach (Dave Ferris), a professional who knew the local scene and would be there all season, and a strike bowler. We are happy with what we have got.

"Dave Lee has come back to us to strengthen the batting and we are hoping Grant Denny, who has played Minor Counties cricket for Cumberland, will have recovered from his shoulder problems.

"We have analysed the number of runs we need to score and the number of wickets we need to take and players will be set targets."

Willott has not been short of offers, but said: "I have made up my mind to play for Leek.

"I need a fresh challenge, having been at Norton for the last 10 years, and feel the move will progress my game.

"I have learned a lot in the last few years and feel I still have a lot to give."

Mellor will also add to the experience of the team. He said: "I accept it is not ideal for me to be captain at the age of 48, but it is short term and I feel it is right for the club.

"I have no illusions of grandeur, but I have attended all the net sessions and feel fit.

"There is a buzz about the place at the moment, although we must get the right balance and blend in the team and start going forward again."