HEREFORD United director of football Graham Turner must continue planning for next season without two of his star names who have opted for a return to the Football League.

Leading scorer Steve Guinan, who hit 29 goals for the Bulls in the season just completed, has signed a two-year contract with Third Division Chelten-ham Town.

"The first thing that Steve said to me when we talked last week was that several league clubs had been in touch, so it was unlikely that he would re-sign," said Turner. "He had a good season for us but we laid on some good chances for him."

Full-back Michael Rose has joined Third Division Yeovil Town, also on a two-year contract. A compensation deal is currently being thrashed out between the clubs.

The news about Rose also did not come as a surprise to Turner as Yeovil had been chasing the former Manchester United youngster since the New Year.

"It was inevitable that he would go and his departure was on the cards for several months," said Turner. "But I don't think it affected his performances for us towards the end of the season."

Turner has, however, had some good news with the decision of two of his young players to sign new contracts at Edgar Street.

Striker Danny Carey-Bertram and defender Tom Smith, aged 19 and 20 respectively, have both committed themselves to the club for a further year.

The pair join Tony James, Rob Purdie, Jamie Pitman, Ryan Green, Danny Williams and youngster Andrew Williams who had already signed on for the 2004-5 campaign.

But Turner has decided to not offer terms to Richard Teesdale, Jordan King, Dean Craven, Andy Wells, Bertrand Cozic, Rob Betts and Mark Beesley.

Bulls fans will have noticed with interest the name of Tamika Mkandawire, who spent two successful loan spells at Edgar Street during the past season, among the list of players not retained by West Bromwich Albion.

l Season tickets for the 2004-5 season will go on sale at Edgar Street on Monday with 'early bird' discounts available for those buying their tickets before June 15.

A ground season ticket will cost £160 for next season, or £145 before June 15, with Len Weston and Merton Stand (blocks B, C and D) prices fixed at £205 (£190 after reduction).

There are further discounts for children and senior citizens. Contact the club office in Blackfriars Street, 01432 276666, for details.