The applications process is now open for the vacant manager/head coach role at Toolstation NCEL Premier Division side Thackley.

It follows the departure of Patrick McGuire last week who had been in the role at Dennyfield for almost five years.

A statement released by the club said: "McGuire leaves his role having led the first team since January 2018 when he took over the reins from Chris Reape on a joint manager basis, taking sole charge in the pre-season of the 2018/2019 season.

"In the 2019/2020 season, McGuire led the Dennyboys to a County Cup semi-final and has also guided Thackley to successive League Cup quarter-final fixtures in the last two seasons.

"McGuire was also at the helm as the club navigated the Covid pandemic and various lockdowns, assisting the club in ensuring the safety of all players, volunteers and supporters whilst still continuing training and taking matches when able to under government guidance.

"McGuire has been a player, captain and manager of Thackley AFC and has been the leader during some of the club’s darkest days.

"Only with McGuire’s loyalty to the club, and the loyalty he garnered from the first team players during this time, was our first team able to compete and retain our place in the NCEL Premier Division.

"Such loyalty is not something which is taken for granted at Thackley AFC and the club’s survival in the division is a credit to McGuire and his coaching staff during his tenure.

"McGuire has consistently pushed the club’s youth development programme which has led to a number of youngsters embarking upon their semi-professional careers at Thackley AFC.

"However, following a summer of optimism with a refreshed playing squad, this season has proven a struggle and the club currently sits in seventeenth position in the league at the halfway stage.

"As a result, following discussions with the board, McGuire has been relieved of his duties.

"The club wishes Patrick all the best for the future."

An interim management team has been installed whilst the search for McGuire's successor takes place with Thomas Greaves stepping up from assistant boss to take temporary charge.

He will be assisted both by first team coach Harley Hirst as well as by senior players Kris Hargreaves and Aidan Chippendale.

And, Thackley are now inviting applications for the permanent role of first team manager/head coach.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing all first team affairs, working alongside the board and committee of the club and its reserve team manager to ensure player progression.

Applications by way of a Football CV and covering email should be sent to club secretary Richard Holmes at Richard.Holmes@thackley-afc.co.uk.

All applications already received for the role will be included in the recruitment process.

The closing date for applications will be Saturday 31th December, 2022.

Successful applicants will be contacted and invited to the next stage of the recruitment process.