Backroom changes at Linnets

RUNCORN LINNETS have made some more moves behind the scenes as they continue their pre-season programme under new manager Michael Ellison.

The former club captain was appointed boss at the Millbank Linnets Stadium last week after the departure of Joey Dunn.

Mark Buckley has been elected as vice-chairman following the resignation of Hedley Edwards from that post.

Speaking about his new role at Linnets, Buckley said: “I am extremely delighted, and feel honoured and privileged to take the position of vice-chairman at the club that has been so dear to my heart since I was a boy.

“After discussion with both chairman Derek Greenwood, and of course Hedley Edwards who has been, and who will continue to be one of the most enthusiastic and hardworking people at the club, I hope I can help the club to keep moving forwards in what are such exciting times on and off the field.

“I really hope that all fans will now unite behind the club and in particular incoming manager Michael Ellison, as we all continue to work tirelessly to achieve the success that everyone connected with Runcorn Linnets so richly deserves.”

In another backroom move, Jon Urquhart has been announced as the club’s new kit manager in succession to Paul Blundell who stepped down at the end of the last campaign.

Meanwhile, the club has “reluctantly” accepted the resignation of assistant boss Stu Humphreys.

On the field in pre-season, Linnets went down to a 3-1 defeat to Radcliffe Borough last Saturday. The Runcorn goal came via a fine Antony Hickey header.

And on Tuesday night, Linnets shared the spoils in an entertaining 2-2 draw with Marine at the Millbank Linnets Stadium. Linnets trailed 2-0 as the Mariners began well, but they cut the deficit in half via a Kurt Sherlock goal on 40 minutes. And they ensured the match would end all-square when Hickey fired home early in the second half.

Linnets have also signed goalkeeper Jack Cookson from Chorley.