STEVE Wilkes has been named as the new manager of Padiham Football Club.

And the former Darwen boss admits he is relishing the challenge following seven years in charge at the Anchor Ground.

"I'm really looking forward to it," said Wilkes, who missed out on promotion with the Reds because of a points deduction after unwittingly fielding Dennis Hill while he was suspended.

Wilkes, who stepped down as manager of the North West Counties Division Two outfit last week, ending a 10-year association with the club as manager and player added: "No disrespect to Darwen but I just need a new challenge now because I think I've taken them as far as I can.

"Last season's achievement of finishing fourth was fantastic, although it was disappointing not to get promoted through no fault of anyone connected with the club.

"I hope we all stay friends because I enjoyed my time at Darwen.

"I don't want any animosity between the clubs and, to be honest, I don't think there will be.

"I would like to thank Kath Marah, the chairwoman, for giving me the opportunity to manage the club seven years ago.

"I'd also like to thank my assistant Martin Atkinson and his wife, Lynn, the club secretary, for everything they've done for me."

And Wilkes, who has made Darwen player Paul Baker his assistant, has assured all Padiham players that they will be given the chance to fight for a place at the NWCL Division Two club in pre-season training.

"I've spoken to one or two Darwen players about coming to Padiham next season, but we will be organising a meeting with all the Padiham players," he said.

"I know it can be difficult for players when a new manager comes in but every single player at Padiham will get their chance.

"If they prove to me they are good enough to play for me and Padiham then they will stay.

"But that's entirely up to the individual.

"Being a player myself, I know it's the worst thing when a new manager comes in and brings his own players with him.

"But when we start pre-season training on July 1 every player who comes down on that night will start off on a level playing field, whether they are completely new to me or have been with me at Darwen for seven years."

Padiham have been searching for a permanent manager since Graham Haworth towards the end of February.

Storks players Anthony McCluskey and Carl Parker were placed in temporary charge but the club advertised for a new manager at the end of the season and, after re-advertising two weeks ago, named Wilkes as their new boss this week.

Meanwhile, Atkinson will take temporary charge of team affairs at Darwen.

A spokesperson for the Reds said they would like to thank Wilkes for his service and wish him luck in his next appointment.