IT'S been back to business for Bury FC players as they returned to full-time training.

Boss Andy Preece has been well pleased with the condition of his first team squad who reported for duty on Wednesday morning.

First on the agenda was a weigh-in followed by some intensive 400m sprint training on the Market Street running track when the players were timed against what they recorded twelve months ago.

" I'm pretty pleased with all the lads," said Preece.

"They have looked after themselves and come back in good shape as I asked.

"We checked their times from last pre-season and all were inside them, which is a good sign.

"I think the penny has dropped with a few of them because hopefully they hurt as much as I do about being relegated to Division Three.

"They are going to have to take more care of themselves this season and we will see the benefits on the pitch.

"Obviously relegation has been a blow but the fact we are getting ready for a new season is a big plus for us and everyone around the club should be buzzing.

"Last season it was doubtful we'd get to this stage but what's gone has gone and we've got to look ahead to the new campaign with the right attitude, which, judging by this week, the players are showing."

There's further good news for the manager in that three of his promising younger players have signed extended contracts.

Full back Matt Barrass, defender Nicky Hill and utility player Lee Connell have all put pen to paper on 12 month extensions.

Barrass, who has been desperately unlucky with injuries over the past three years, will be keen to to put in an untroubled season so he can finally realise the immense potential he has shown so far.

Regarded as one of the best young defenders in the lower divisions it's a massive season for the Bury-born defender and all Shakers fans will wish him well for the new campaign.

"Matty has worked his socks off to get back from a really bad injury and we will be looking for big things from him this year," added Preece.

"It's a big year for Nicky and Lee too. Lee came through into the first team late last season and showed what he can do but just needs a bit more consistency.

"The opportunities are going to be there for both of them because of the size of the squad and they are going to have to take their chances by the scruff of the neck."

Barrass is determined there will be no repeat of his knee ligament nightmare of the past and has being going the extra mile to make sure he's ready for the big kick-off.

"I'm just looking to get through the season without injury," he said. "The knee is fine now and I have done a lot of work over the summer trying to build the legs up, I'm sure this year my luck will change and my main objective is to get into the side and keep my position.

"Relegation has been a big disappointment but a lot of people have worked hard to keep the club going over the past few months.

"The fact we are here at all will lift us and hopefully we can thank the fans by getting back into the Second Division at the first time of asking."