Paddy Kelly has agreed a three-year deal with the club

It is a reward for Kelly after he guided DC to a place the Carnegie Premier League following 30 years in junior football.

Kelly, who has been manager at Suffolk Road for nine years, said the deal was a "brave step forward" by the club.

DC have signed former Coleraine striker Sean Armstrong and Larne keeper Alex Spackman is also set to join.

Kelly also wants to add two midfielders and a central defender to his squad for the new campaign.

However, the top-flight newcomers have missed out on bringing Institute midfielder Tommy McCallion to the club.

Donegal Celtic secured promotion to the Premier League after a play-off victory over Institute last month.