BRADFORD (Park Avenue) manager Mark Bower says the news that his side’s Vanarama National League North status is secure for next season is a huge boost to their chances of signing quality players.

On Wednesday night, National League member clubs voted to pass the ordinary resolution that had been put forward, which ended the season on an unweighted points per game basis and ensured there would be no relegation from the National League North and South.

Although that has been the likely outcome for a while, given all the leagues below were declared null and void, Bower said having the decision confirmed, pending FA Council approval, is a relief.

He said: “We pretty much knew we weren’t going down but to have it confirmed with the resolution just kicks things into gear.

“Things are starting to happen and I’ve been busy this (Thursday) morning sorting out deals for a couple of existing players and some new signings, which we should announce over the next couple of weeks.

“There’ll be a lot less money around for many clubs next season and players are starting to realise the reality of the situation, so it’s picking up with people signing deals.

“Now it’s official that we’re safe, it gives us a chance, when dealing with players, to tell them that we know we’ll be in this league next season.

“We want players to be as ambitious as they can and there’s some lower down the pyramid that will want to join us now and we can help them kick on in their career.”

Discussing young duo Isaac Marriott and Brad Dockerty, who have returned to the club after brief spells away, Bower said: “Isaac came in at a really difficult time but I think the experience he had stood him in good stead.

“He was brought up on good pitches at Huddersfield Town’s academy and it’s no coincidence that his best game for us by miles was against Harrogate Town on their 3G pitch, which is what we’re going to have for next season

“He has real energy up and down the pitch. There are certain aspects of his game that we hope to improve, which I’m confident we can as he’s only a young player, then he should be able to get back up to a higher level.

“Brad didn’t really take off for us when we came in last season, as his work patterns meant he couldn’t fully commit.

“But he went to Pontefract Collieries and got some games under his belt. He’s got real attributes, like his pace and eye for goal, and if we can improve him in other areas, he can be an asset.”

Asked where else Avenue need to strengthen, Bower said: “We’ve got to fill all areas. We basically know now that we’re not going to start in August and it’s going to be a condensed season.

“So we need a versatile squad, with players that can fill a few positions if we pick up some niggly injuries.

“I’m pleased with us getting a goalie (Dan Atkinson) in and getting Jake Hibbs back in central midfield.

“It’s down that spine where we’re really going to have to go and get quality players in.”