IT may be the close season but there has been a lot of activity concerning the local semi-professional clubs, with significant comings and goings.

Guiseley have announced the departure of stalwart defender Danny Ellis ahead of their first season in the top tier of non-league football.

The Lions will be playing in the nation’s fifth division next term following their promotion-winning campaign.

The extra commitment needed for the next step on the football pyramid has put a strain on Mark Bower’s squad, and many have had to take stock as they mull over the possibility of facing an away game against Torquay United on a Tuesday night.

Ellis, who will remain as a coach for the Guiseley academy, has had to pass on that, citing his young family as a factor for him not re-signing.

After ten years at Nethermoor, Ellis has signed for last season’s Vanarama North rivals Harrogate Town.

Meanwhile, others from last season’s squad are still considering offers from the club.

There was good news for Guiseley's neighbours Bradford Park Avenue when they secured the signature of last season’s leading scorer Chib Chilaka for another season, while former Guiseley and Thackley winger Luke Richardson moved to Silsden.

The rumour mill suggests that Avenue’s former Bantams forward Joe Colbeck may have also pledged his immediate future to Harrogate Town.

There is also talk that Eccleshill United have lost last season’s skipper Charlie Flaherty and striker Marcus Edwards.

Farsley Celtic have confirmed three departures, with Gibraltar international Adam Priestley, defender Matt Dempsey and the versatile Mikey Aspin all missing from the squad for the coming campaign.

Celts boss Neil Parsley is hoping to announce new signings as he works behind the scenes on deals to land his transfer targets.

The Farsley manager is not alone as the other clubs continue to freshen up their squads with pre-season schedules imminent.