Accrington Stanley have made the first of what they hope will be two new signings this week.

Manager John Coleman fended off competition from a number of Football League sides to snap up defender Stuart Howson on a one-year deal last night, following his release from Chesterfield.

And the Reds chief was expecting to complete the signing of a midfielder later this week after agreeing terms.

Stanley had been tracking former Blackburn Rovers trainee Howson for some time.

The 22-year-old made over 50 appearances for the Spireites after signing in February 2002, despite having the end of the following season disrupted by injury.

Meanwhile, winger Rory Prendergast took the first steps to becoming a full-time professional with Accrington Stanley when he handed in his notice to Royal Mail yesterday.

The 25-year-old, who picked up the Supporters Club Player of the Season award at the club's presentation night, resigned from his position as a postman in Wakefield yesterday.

"It felt great," said Prendergast, whose four-weeks notice is broken up by a holiday in Ibiza.

"I can't wait until we go full-time in July."

The former York City player is now ready to start house-hunting in the Hyndburn area.