After the prestigious signing of FA Trophy winner Gregg Anderson a fortnight ago, a real buzz has surrounded Shawbridge and the town of Clitheroe itself. Many believe the prodigal son has now returned to his spiritual home and the Blues fan base have been delighted with this sign of intent shown by the club’s hierarchy.

As with every deal, the management team of Simon Garner and Ryan Parr have been delighted with the financial backing and immense faith shown by Chairwoman Anne Barker and with more recruits in the pipeline, Anderson’s appearance could be the start of a big summer for Clitheroe.

Barker herself has stayed out of the limelight and instead does her business quietly behind the scenes in most instances. The coup of Anderson however has delighted the whole board and filled the Blues Chairwoman with joy, as she described linking up with the robust defender makes hours of hard work and negotiations ‘worthwhile.’

“I’m really happy with the signing of Gregg Anderson. I’ve looked at comments on twitter and it’s clear to see that he’s held in very high regard by Clitheroe fans.

“It is also testament that North Ferriby United’s supporters and the club for wishing him well. Sometimes when a top player leaves, people aren’t happy to see him go but they’ve been incredible.”

Barker continued saying with great delight; “Gregg is a genuinely nice man and it makes running the club and giving up your time worthwhile when you get to work with someone like him.”

Anderson has already donned the famous Blue and White shirt of Clitheroe, with his first stint at the club coming nearly a decade ago, as the then fresh faced teenager made his debut on the less than forgiving artificial surface of the Lambeth Grove Stadium, home of Woodley Sports.

A game in which Blues fans will never forget for Anderson’s last ditch tackles and commanding aerial ability that made him an instant fans favourite.

The Blues Chairwoman is under no illusions that the signing of Anderson will once again strengthen the side, as she hopes his presence will enhance an already improving squad of young and hungry players.

“He’s been at the club before and he’s very close friends with Simon Garner. When we appointed Si we knew he had some great contacts from playing in the game and it’s great that they have now been re-united.”

Barker added; “I have no doubt he’ll strengthen the squad, he has the experience that some lack and playing alongside some of the young players I’m sure he will make us stronger.”

Anderson’s signing is the first new name through the gates of Shawbridge this summer, however after late season contract renewals of Captain David Lynch, defensive stalwart Danny Brady and top scorer Sefton Gonzales, things are looking bright at the club.

The build up to pre-season will be a case of building on what the club have instead of re-building from scratch and Barker finished by stating that Blues fans should stay tuned over the next few months for an exciting summer ahead.

“We have other irons in fire. Gregg may be the biggest signing we make this summer but there will be others to follow…”