ROSSENDALE have captured former England Counties prop Nick Flynn as they aim for a promotion tilt this season.

Dale finished a very creditable fifth in National League Three North last term and their newly-appointed first team manager Ian Jones says hopes are high at Marl Pits ahead of the 2016-17 campaign.

“We’ve been busy over the summer and there’s a real buzz about the place, we think we can have a real go at winning promotion,” said Jones.

“To finish in the top five last season was a fine effort and the top two or three places, and a play-off position, is our main goal this season.”

The Stags, once again, will be coached by Mark Nelson, with James Bramhall and Danny Collins set to play a crucial role in his backroom team.

Bramhall and Collins will also combine their playing roles with coaching commitments, as too will Flynn.

Dale have also added Curtis Strong from Sedgley Park to the squad along with Kane Bevan, who returns home for a second spell from Preston Grasshoppers.

“They are two very good signings, and Curtis is only 23 and a very promising winger,” said Jones.

“Kane was a colt at Rossendale before he went to Preston, so we know all about him.

“It is great to see him back at Rossendale, where I’m sure he will do well this season.”

He added: “We are still working on a few things and there could be at least two more signings before the start.”

The Stags have lined up a couple of pre-season friendlies ahead of their league start when they host Wirral on September 3.

‘Dale entertain Blackburn on August 20 and a week later go to Kirkby Lonsdale for their final warm-up fixture.