KENDAL Town manager Dave Foster has bolstered his attacking options ahead of the new campaign with the signing of Kieran Pickup from fellow Evo-Stik First Divison North side Padiham.

Pickup netted 16 goals last season, including the opener in the Mintcakes' 2-1 defeat at the Arbories in October, as the Storks staved off relegation to maintain their league status.

Foster has been in the market for an attacker with the future of the club’s star striker Danny Mitchley yet to resolved, and Maison McGeechan heading to Australia in September.

This leaves a potential 40-goal hole in Kendal’s squad, with former Blackpool hitman Mitchley currently weighing up his option, although a return to full-time football remains the ultimate aim.

While it is uncertain whether the new frontman will partner or replace last season’s leading marksman, Foster is pleased with his latest piece of transfer business.

“I’m delighted to get Kieran in, he scored a decent amount of goals last year and impressed when he came up against us," he said.

“He is young, keen to do well and eager to move up the pyramid. When I spoke with him he certainly had the right attitude to why he wants to come and play here.

“He is lively with good movement and certainly looks as though he will score a lot of goals – he should be a big asset.

“He is comfortable going in behind or showing for feet.  I’m really looking forward to working with him.”

Pickup is the latest player to swell the Kendal ranks following the signings of Kieran Walmsley, Danny Wisdom and Lydon Hodgkiss, as Foster continues to steal a march in the transfer market.

Experienced centre-half Ricky Mercer has also committed his future to the club, with the former Northwich Victoria defender agreeing terms and signing on for the coming season.

Meanwhile, Kendal have announced their pre-season schedule, with Conference North new boys AFC Fylde set to visit Parkside Road on Saturday, July 5.

Town then visit Lee Ashcroft’s new side Longridge Town, Thackley and Bootle before ending their warm up programme with games at home to Workington and Skelmersdale United.