ALL-ROUNDER Mark Greenhalgh has signed for Read, to give the Ribblesdale League championship favourites a pre-season boost.

Former Accrington star Greenhalgh was a key member of Rishton's 1995 title-winning team in the Lancashire League before playing as professional for Leek last summer.

"Under the rules, he has to play for Rishton if he wants to go back to the Lancashire League," said Read chairman Wilf Woodhouse.

"He can't sign for another of their clubs as Rishton retain his registration. And, when we knew he wasn't going back there, we spoke to him and we are delighted he will be playing for us."

Read play their first friendly at Stand on Sunday.

Former Cherry Tree pro Scott Pearce is to play for Great Harwood, with Chris Ramsker also moving from Preston Old Road to The Cliffe.

And last year's skipper of Blackburn Northern, Nigel Robbins is expected to switch leagues to play for Darwen in the Vaux Northern League.

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