Proudlock was one of three coaches in charge at Pool last season as the side set the pace at the top of the Wearside League, before falling to sixth by the end of the campaign.

The former Northern League player has now been put in sole charge of the coaching team and has outlined some lofty ambitions.

Proudlock does not think finishing in the top two next season is beyond Pool and thinks with a bit of off-the-field help, the club can go on to be a force in the Northern League Second Division.

"There were three of us picking the team last year and we decided to go to one manager and bring in new assistants to help me out," said Proudlock.

"Our ambition is to finish in the top two and make it into the Northern League, but it is not going to be easy.

"We are up against sides who are paying wages to their players.

"We are hoping for at least a top four position because we want to progress, but it depends on the other teams and whether they have got some financial backing."

Last season, Pool were top of the Wearside League going into March, only for a host of players to be plucked by Northern League sides.

But the squad is looking strong ahead of the new season with a number of ex-pro's among the ranks, including ex-Luton midfielder Shaun Ross, former Sheffield Wednesday defender Brian Linighan and ex-Hartlepool United youngsters Shaun and Carl Wood.

The coaching team will also include Proudlock's brother and ex-Gateshead manager Paul, who played for Middlesbrough, Pools and Carlisle.

Proudlock said: "Last year was only our third season in the Wearside league. We were top of the league with six weeks to go, but we lost a few players to Northern League sides.

"This season we are hoping to push it a bit further.

"It would be nice to get a good quality Hartlepool team in the Northern League who want to play for Hartlepool. I don't think we are far off."

Pool are also putting in the work off the pitch to make promotion a viable option.

Sponsors are being sought to provide floodlights at Grayfields and the club is also looking into the possibility of constructing a stand to meet the criteria needed for Northern League entry.

"If we can get our facilities up to date, we can apply to play in the Norhtern League," said Proudlock.

"It is the first time that I have played at Grayfields where the changing rooms have been decent and the facilities are right up there. We just need floodlights now which we need some funding for.

"There is a lot going on in the background though to get some sponsorship."

Anyone interested in sponsoring the club should contact Tony Thomas on 07717 210401.