MORECAMBE have swooped to snare old boy John Hardiker on loan from League Two outfit Bury.

And the Christie Park cult hero is aiming to force his way back into the Football League.

"It's good to be back here," he says. "I didn't have to think for s econd when I heard Morecambe wanted me on loan.

"And I am determined to do all I can to help the club win promotion."

Hardiker, who left the Shrimps in January 2002 in a deal that eventually cost Stockport County £150,000, could be with the Christie Park outfit until the end of the year.

The Preston-born 23-year-old has played 13 times for the Shakers this season - but fell out of favour at Gigg Lane when new manager Chris Casper - the youngest boss in the League - took over.

Due to Bury still being involved in the FA Cup, Hardiker will not be allowed to play against Northwich Victoria on Saturday, and is cup tied for the Bradford City game having already featured for Bury in the LDV Vans Trophy.

But he can play in the Conference, the United Co-operatives Lancashire Challenge Trophy and the FA Trophy.

He will be a spectator as the Shrimps go head to head with old foes Northwich Victoria in the first round proper of the FA Cup at Christie Park on Saturday (3pm kick-off).

Northwich don't have the best record by the Lancashire seaside and lost for the first time this season at the weekend, going down by the odd goal in five at Hucknall Town.

They are now second in Conference North.