DEFENDER Shane Killock became the first player to commit his immediate future to Bradford Park Avenue when he signed a new deal in midweek.

Killock was a key man as the club hauled themselves off the foot of the National North table under Mark Bower and ultimately secured a sixth season in the sixth tier of English football.

The centre back began his career at Huddersfield Town but was at Harrogate Town when he first came into Bower's sights. The former Bantams skipper was manager of Guiseley at the time and he took Killock to Nethermoor on loan.

Avenue supporters will be pleased to see him back for another season after 34 appearances last term. Killock did not need any persuading to sign a one-year contract with Avenue following a short phone conversation with the boss.

"Even though we didn't do great last season, I've enjoyed being at the club and hopefully we can continue to improve and build on it," said Killock.

"We have been on a good run in the last few months of the season and I don't think we're that far away as a squad.

"Mark took me on loan from Harrogate when he was at Guiseley the year they were promoted to the Conference, so I know what he's about.

"He's a really nice bloke and all the lads take to him straight away. I'm delighted to be back with him for another season.

"Hopefully he can bring in a few new faces to add to what we've already got and hopefully we can be challenging and go on to be more competitive than we were last season.

"We know ourselves that it wasn't the best season and obviously not winning for the first 15 games, you are always going to struggle.

"It's going to be another very strong league next year, having seen the teams that are coming down as well as teams like Kidderminster and Salford who have lost in the play-offs.

"But we want to be as competitive as we can and we'll see where that gets us come the end of the season."

Bower hopes the season-ticket initiative that Avenue have launched brings in a new generation of fans.

Adult prices have been reduced to £125 and that includes free admission for one under-18. Concessions, 60 years and above, are £99, while students, apprentices and under-18s pay just £20 for the whole season.

Bower said: "I think it's a fantastic offer and I've seen what unbelievable support you can get at Bradford City with their deals, so this city does encourage real football supporters.

"We won't get anywhere near the numbers City get but if we increase the support we had last season and entice some young fans, all the better. We'll certainly be doing what we can on the pitch to entertain them and provide a good standard of football."