Words John Edwards | Pictures Jonathan Moore

Altrincham are delighted to announce that Charlie Olson's second loan spell at the club will now go on until the end of the season.

The highly-rated Blackburn Rovers centre-back was a pivotal figure in Alty's 3-1 Isuzu FA Trophy win over Barnet on Saturday but was due to return to Ewood Park after completing a month at The J.Davidson Stadium.

But in a development that significantly strengthens Alty's squad, Rovers have agreed to allow him to remain with us for the remainder of the campaign, as the Robins look to stay on track for honours in both the Vanarama National League and the Trophy.

It's another coup for manager Phil Parkinson, as he looks to guard against any disruption caused by injury or suspension, and the boss was full of praise for the 20-year old's impact so far, as he said:

"Charlie has an excellent skill-set and has complemented Lewis Baines perfectly since coming in. It has almost forced the club to retain his services for the remainder of the season, and we know he adds great strength and depth at the heart of our defence."

Liverpool-born Charlie first made his mark at The J.Davidson as skipper of Blackburn under-21s in their opening National League Cup tie against Alty, and his latest spell with us began in the Trophy with a place against Macclesfield a month ago.

He has looked rock-solid throughout, and, in welcoming the news that he will be with us until the last kick of the campaign, everyone at the club would like to wish him continuing success in Alty colours.

While Charlie is staying put, the club are bidding farewell to attacking midfielder Max Haygarth, whose short-term contract has come to an end.

"Unfortunately, we haven’t seen the best of Max, through injury and the good form of his team-mates," explained Phil. "He’ll keep ticking over with us until he finds another club."

The Robins boss also provided an update on how Alty youngsters Louie Fallon, Joel Bailey and Owen German are faring on loan at Pitching In Northern Premier League West Division Witton Albion.

"All three are flourishing under the management of two former Alty players in Ben Harrison and James Lawrie," he said. "It’s great to see Ben and James doing well in their new management roles, and our players are certainly benefiting them as much as they are improving from their guidance and experience.

"It’s a match made in heaven, and our relationship with a great club like Witton Albion will hopefully continue and get even stronger."

In addition, 17-year old Academy keeper Max Beddow has been continuing his development on loan at Newcastle Town after earlier making 17 appearances for Redgate Clayton in the Staffordshire County League Premier Division.

"Max has done really well since he started with us in August," said Alty Academy manager Paul Fay. "He picked up valuable experience with Redgate Clayton, and he also played for Newcastle Town in the FA Youth Cup, where his stand-out performances earned him the opportunity to train with their first team.

"As a consequence, Max has now been involved in two match day squads, which can only stand him in good stead."