FORMER players of the wound-up Rhyl FC have found themselves new homes this week.

The Lilywhites ended their illustrious 141-year history when they failed to find the £175,000 needed to stay afloat until May 2021, and this was swiftly followed by a new club being formed and an agreement reached with ground owner David Butters to use Belle Vue.

This left manager Eddie Maurice-Jones searching for a different club after deciding not to apply for the CPD Y Rhyl 1879 position due to “ongoing concerns”. This is something he did quickly by become Gresford Athletic first-team boss, and he brought a trusted figure along to the club with him.

Defender Max Peate is no stranger to Athletic having skippered the side during Maurice-Jones’ first spell in-charge, and he also followed him to both Denbigh Town and Rhyl in recent seasons.

Maurice-Jones, said: “After discussing with Max about a possible return to Gresford Athletic, we both felt it was the right decision.

“Max arguably played his best football at Gresford and is highly thought of at the club. I believe this is a positive signing and the right environment for Max to fur fill his potential and enjoy his football.

“Max is a big character within the dressing room, a leader and very committed to winning. He will bring quality and add healthy competition to the group."

Talented defender Ben Nash will try his hand at JD Cymru Premier football next season after joining newly promoted Flint Town United, where he will link-up with ex-Lilies’ boss Niall McGuinness.

The former Connah’s Quay Nomads U19 standout attracted a wealth of interest after a fine two seasons under Maurice-Jones at Rhyl, and he is one of many eye-catching acquisitions made by McGuinness during the window so far.

Ilan ap Gareth, who joined Rhyl from Porthmadog during the January transfer window, has penned a deal with JD Cymru North outfit Holywell Town following their promotion.

The player came through the ranks at Wrexham, Chester and The New Saints before making a move to Cefn Druids.

This was followed by an impressive stint at Port, and ap Gareth also caught the eye during his limited time in a Lilywhites’ shirt.