Tony Burman has secured the services of the majority of his promotion-winning side for next season’s assault on the Ryman League, Premier Division.

The Dartford boss has completed contract negotiations with seven of last season’s squad and hopes to have spoken with the rest by the end of this week.

John Guest, Adam Flanagan, Jamie Coyle, Ryan Hayes, Tony Kessell, Steve Norman and Eddie McClements have all been signed up on contracts.

Last season’s top scorer Brendon Cass will meet with Burman this week but he is also on contract for another year. The Darts boss believes that is keeping other teams away from his star striker.

“We have to sit down with Brendon but there’s no problem with him; he’s staying,” said Burman.

“When people find out he’s on contract, strangely enough we don’t get as many phone calls and that’s the beauty of putting people on contract.

“What I wanted to do was talk with all of the squad. Some of the players have agreed to sign for another year and others will come back for pre-season.

“I’ve still got others to speak with. It’s been a pretty hectic time but I wanted to get some people signed up.”