AFC Emley have moved to appoint caretaker manager Darren Hepworth in the role on a permanent basis after an impressive run of results.

Since taking over from Darren Bland in November, the charismatic Hepworth has led his side to six wins from ten league games - including impressive wins over promotion hopefuls Pontefract Collieries and Barton Town Old Boys - to drag his side out of the bottom three of the KoolSport NCEL First Division table.

After a three year spell with District league side Cumberworth, Hepworth made the step up to manage Emley's newly formed reserve side and won them promotion to the WRCL First Division at their first attempt.

Club secretary John Whitehead said: "We are delighted that Darren has accepted the post on a full time basis. He has brought stability and belief back to the side starting from the training sessions right through to matchday.

"Darren has a good knowledge of players in the local area and we feel that he can harness this talent and bring the players through to a higher standard.

"He has worked on a tight budget and got the results. The turnaround in form is no coincidence and we believe that we have the right man to take us forward."

Hepworth has a quick opportunity to avenge a 2-0 defeat inflicted on his side by Staveley Miners Welfare last week when they entertain the league leaders on Wednesday.

He names a strong squad for the game, including two ex-Staveley men in the shape of captain Judd Colley and Maltese winger Teo Ringrose.

Staveley also feature two ex-Emley men with Lee Hill and Callum Westney amongst their numbers.