DEFENSIVE duo Gary Talbot and Andy Scott have become the first victims of Alty's summer clearout following their relegation reprieve.

The pair had already committed themselves to a season in the Blue Square North with the Robins.

But when the club was reinstated to the Blue Square Premier at Saturday's Conference AGM, manager Graham Heathcote's plans changed and they have now made way for a host of new arrivals.

Darren Tinson has already arrived at Moss Lane and Heathcote has targeted at least five more new faces before the start of the season.

Of the players departing, it is Gary Talbot who will be most sorely missed by Alty fans.

The 36-year-old, known as 'Steakhead' by his teammates, made 281 appearances in more than five years for the club.

Renowned for his prodigious heading ability and no-nonsense style, Talbot became a key figure in the Alty defence, forming a formidable partnership alongside fellow Liverpudlian Mark Maddox.

But his appearances last season were limited by injury and Heathcote decided now was the time for him to move on.

He told SAM Sport: "Gary's not staying with us simply because we're in the National again.

"He's been a fantastic ambassador for this club over the years and a fantastic example of someone who's looked after himself to play football.

"It's a real shame that he's got to go but Gary himself admitted that the pace of the game at this level was probably too much for him now."

Meanwhile, Scott leaves after just five months at Moss Lane.

He was brought in as defensive cover midway through last season and made seven appearances for the club, playing at left back and in centre midfield.