Chairman steps down at newboys

Vice-chairman Paul Eastup stepped up as interim chairman on Monday after Mark Buckley stood down at the Millbank Linnets Stadium citing personal reasons.

Buckley, pictured, was appointed in 2017 after joining the new EVO-STIK League West Division club's board back in 2009 and a previous spell as vice-chairman.

Officials at the 2017-18 North West Counties Football League champions paid tribute to their outgoing chairman in a statement confirming his departure and the temporary appointment of Eastup.

A statement read: "The board wishes to place on record its appreciation of Mark's immense contribution in just short of a decade's involvement with the club. His wide-ranging duties, apart from the chairmanship, have included programme editor, pitch maintenance and public address announcer.

"With typical 100 [er cent commitment, Mark steered the Linnets' off-field team through the club's most successful season on the field, culminating in Premier Division title success in The Hallmark Security League and promotion to The EVO-STIK League West Division.

"While thanking Mark and looking forward to his continued support of the club, the Trust Board is sorry he has chosen to step down but respects his decision and wishes him well. Vice-chairman Paul Eastup will assume the role of interim chairman while the board further discusses the appointment of the new club chairman."

Image courtesy of @RuncornLinnets/Twitter

Follow us: @evostikleague on Twitter | Facebook www.facebook.com/evostikleague