COLWYN Bay have lost the services of two influential squad members ahead of the new season.

The Seagulls confirmed that top scorer Astley Mulholland and Jack Hindle have both agreed deals with National League side Barrow, who have a significant budget ahead of a possible promotion tilt.

Mulholland was the standout Bay performer last term with 18 Evo-stik North goals, before he got injured during a crucial stage of the run-in which played a huge part in Alan Morgan’s men failing to secure a playoff berth.

Assistant boss Craig Hogg paid tribute to the departing pair, with Hindle also enhancing his reputation thanks to a series of exceptional performances throughout the campaign.

He said: “For any club to lose the services of quality players like Jack and Astley it is always going to be a little disappointing when those types of players move on, but where this case is concerned, the club and management team are extremely proud and pleased for both players moving into the National League with Barrow.

“They have both worked exceptionally hard during our short time at Colwyn Bay and have shown on numerous occasions the quality and desire needed to play at a higher level. We are all quite certain they will be a success there.

“I think it says much about the quality of the league and players in general with so many clubs in the National League and above signing or taking an interest in players from step four of non-league football.”

Hogg also revealed to The Pioneer that Morgan is in “advanced negotiations” with a number of players and further announcement are expected “in the coming days and weeks”.

“We have a very important summer ahead and from the academy to the first team we are all desperate to bring success here,” added Hogg.

“The hard work has started in earnest and that will remain the case.”