ST HELENS Town first team manager Ian Price has stepped down from the position at the club.

The club, who were relegated from the North West Counties Premier League with the last kick of the season, are now advertising for the post.

Chairman John McKiernan was quick to pay tribute to the departing manager - and the energy he has injected into the side during three tough seasons.

He said: "Ian spoke to me a couple of weeks before the end of the season and told me that because of his new job he would be stepping down from his position as manager.

"Ian’s been with us for the past three seasons and has proved to be a great ambassador for St Helens Town.

"His dedication to the club and team affairs cannot be questioned and I would like to thank him on behalf of everyone at the club for the considerable time and energy he has given the job.

"It’s been a difficult time for the club and it’s unfortunate that the huge effort by Ian, his management team and the players didn’t pay off. We wish him and his fiancé Chantal all the very best for their forthcoming wedding and I am sure we will see him at a game or two in the future.

"Committee, supporters and players will be able to say a personal goodbye to Ian at our presentation evening on Friday, May 15."

The club’s committee will be meeting this week to discuss Price’s replacement but any interested applicants are asked to email their CV and any relevant information to club secretary Jeff Voller on sthelenstownfc@hotmail.co.uk