PROMOTION-chasing Nantwich Town have swooped to sign prolific striker Andy Bott from rivals Newcastle.

It's something of a coup for the Dabbers with the 30-year-old hot-shot renowned for doing plenty of damage over the last few years.

Player boss Steve Davis is determined to hit the ground running when the NWC Division One campaign kicks-off in August.

And with Jamie Marrow suspended and Matt Blake recovering from a knee op, he knew he needed to boost his options up front.

Forming a formidable partnership with highly rated Michael Lennon last year, Bott helped himself to 19 goals last season.

Davis says the former Stafford striker's record speaks for itself.

"We had talks and Andy was keen to come here," he explained.

"He's been prolific, I think his record is something like 150 goals in 210 appearances.

"He's been with Stafford so he's got good experience and a good record.

"We had to do something with Matt Blake out and Jamie Marrow has got a ban coming up.

"Andy's come here to start and it will be up to the other lads to force their way back in."

Davis says the squad are hungry for further success after winning the FA Vase and a fourth-placed finish, last season.

That means promotion.

"What happened last season is now history," added Davis.

"We've got to start again.

"The lads are eager to get back and we're all pulling in the same direction.

"The players are ambitious and maybe they're even more hungry because they've had a taste of success now."

So they're back in training in preparation this week.

"We've started back at the same time we did last season which helped us a lot," he continued.

"There's good competition for places now and we'll bring in a couple more on trial.

"We've arranged a couple more friendlies so we can take a look at players."