Runcorn lost to Radcliffe Borough in the Pre-season warm-up at Taurus Park with a score of 3-1. Radcliffe Borough scored in the 9th minute from a free kick. Antony Hickey equalised following a cracking header from a free-kick 40 yards out in the 53rd minute. Radcliffe Borough went ahead in the 59th minute. Radcliffe Borough increased their lead in the 80th minute.

We are still working hard on the the new Clubhouse project, with the intention of getting a planning submission prepared for September.

We are currently working through floorplan drafts with the architects for a building that will work for us on an operational level, and include spaces for both the Senior and Junior wings of the club. Preliminary surveys have been undertaken, and so the position and orientation of the building, although not yet set in stone, are becoming clearer. As soon as we have a floorplan that can be shared, then we will publish it for eveybody to see.

If all goes as expected, then the clubhouse will occupy an area in the Southwest corner of the site - this will put it next to the Hallmark Stand, extending out beyond the current boundary fence near where the second turnstile is currently located. It isn't yet clear whether the second turnstile will have to be moved, or whether it can stay put - obviously, the main turnstile that we currently use, will have to be re-positioned.

We are also investigating the most cost effective/least disruptive way of getting services to the new site of the clubhouse. Currently the services all run via the existing clubhouse, but obviously that won't work once construction on the West side of Stockham Lane starts, and that building is demolished.

Once the building plans, along with the location, are finalised, then the next step will be to take the project to tender. We expect the construction to start before the end of the upcoming season, which will obviously cause some disruption, but we are hopeful that the bulk of the construction will take place in the 2017 off-season, although we won't be delaying construction if everything else is ready to go.

Michael Ellison said "I am delighted and honoured to have been given the opportunity to manage Runcorn Linnets, a club very dear to my heart.

"Having made over 200 appearances, many as captain, I understand what the club is all about. I know the expectations will be high, but with a good nucleus of established players, coupled with new signings, with have the ingredients to compete.

"I have a hard act to follow, having worked closely with Joey Dunn, I know I can draw on the experiences I have learned from him, and in many ways we share similar football ideas. I was made up to receive Joey's blessing, it's great to know he is on the end of the phone if I need him and I'm thankful for that offer!

"I felt it essential that Stuart Humphreys should continue the great work that he has done as assistant manager at the club, and he will have an important role and input as we move forward.

"The fans at Runcorn Linnets have always been supportive and appreciative during my time as a player, and I know I can count on their backing now that I have taken on this role. There is still some work to be done but I look forward to taking charge for the first time."

Linnets Chairman Derek Greenwood added "The Trust Board needed no convincing that Michael is the perfect choice for Runcorn Linnets. He brings an infectious enthusiasm and he has the support of senior players and staff. With Stuart Humphreys alongside him he has the ideal guiding hand."

The club are very happy to announce that Michael Ellison has been appointed as the new Runcorn Linnets Manager. Stu Humphreys will continue in his role as Assistant Manager.

The club has now issued a further statement concerning the resignation of Joey Dunn.

Club Chairman, Derek Greenwood, was saddened after a period of discussions with Joey to accept his resignation. "We are all desperately sorry that Joey has felt the need to make this decision but fully understand his reasons for doing so. We have lost the best manager in the league and it has been a privilege to work with Joey" said the Chairman.

Joey added; "Early in the summer, we discussed my need for a break from the game. We looked at possible scenarios but ultimately I just felt the need for a complete break and the club accepted this. The role of a manager is all consuming and this ultimately has taken its toll. It would be easier for there to be a specific reason cited, but there is not, and I trust that you understand that for me to walk away from being manager of The Linnets, I am 100% convinced, is the right thing to do. It would be more damaging and wrong for me to stay in position.

"I have been immensely proud and honoured to serve as the Manager of Runcorn Linnets and can say that the club are the best run I have ever been lucky to serve under. The board have been totally supportive in everything I have asked in my time here. I would wish to leave with only positives from my experiences here and will be eternally sad that I could not deliver the much sought after promotion, but am confident that this will not be too far in the future".