Shrewd loan addition for Atherton Collieries

Rawsthorn is no stranger to these parts, having impressed one mile down the road at North West Counties level for Laburnum Rovers last season. 

He quickly caught the eye of Radcliffe, who signed the forward 12 months ago before loaning him back to his former club.

Rawsthorn went on to enjoy a fruitful season in front of goal, scoring 31 goals in total.

He made his debut for Radcliffe on the final day of last season, starting and scoring in a 3-2 defeat at Gainsborough Trinity.

The young striker began the 2024/25 campaign with a short-term loan at FC United of Manchester after impressing National League North newcomers Radcliffe during pre-season, but has now moved onto the Dreams2Reality Stadium in search of more game time.

“Lewis is a player I've watched a few times, as he was playing locally to where I live," said newly-appointed Colls manager Michael Clegg.

"He played against my Rylands team last year in a friendly, and he was good.

"Lewis is hungry to kick on, he can score goals, and he comes into a new squad who want to kick on also.

"I have a great relationship with Radcliffe, and it will work well for us all.”

Clegg's squad rebuild continues to take shape following his appointment at the end of August.

He made his first signings earlier this month as forward Tom Bentham and midfielder Ethan Kershaw returned to the club.

Last week, versatile left-sided player Tom Warren - formerly of Warrington Town, and who previously played under Clegg at Ashton United - also joined on a permanent basis.

Photo credit: Radcliffe