Long-serving Nantwich Town manager departs

Cooke has been in charge of the Dabbers for over five years, having been first appointed in May 2017 following the departure of former boss Phil Parkinson.

During his time at the Weaver Stadium, he helped the club reach the Emirates FA Cup first round proper and secure a play-off spot during the 2018/19 season.

Ritchie Sutton will take interim charge of the first team and will be supported by Cooke until a new manager is appointed.

In a statement, the club said the decision was made with “the longer-term future of the club” in mind.

It also read: “Under Dave’s guidance and management, the club has enjoyed many memorable and exciting occasions and great successes over the past five years, including reaching the first-round proper of the FA Cup twice, two Cheshire Senior Cup wins and producing a team that has constantly competed at the top end of the division, despite having a lesser budget than most of our peers at this level.

“He has also played a significant part in identifying, recruiting, and developing numerous young players and we are hopeful that we will be retaining his vast and invaluable experience that will see him continue to assist the club and future management team in a recruitment capacity, as his DNA is woven into the fabric of Nantwich Town Football Club over a lifetime, and we are all extremely proud of his achievements."

He leaves the Dabbers after a difficult start to the 2022/23 season.

The club sit second-bottom of the Pitching In NPL Premier Division after three draws and three defeats from their opening six matches.

His final game in charge saw the club knocked out of the FA Cup by Congleton Town following a 2-0 home defeat last weekend.

The club have said a new manager will be announced in due course.

Photo credit: Nantwich Town