LEIGH Centurions have begun the search for another new chairman - their second since the turn of the year!

Stan Aspinall, in the Hilton Park hot seat for only a matter of weeks, has stepped down because of increased work commitments.

He is also to resign his seat on the board but will continue to work behind the scenes on sponsorship and corporate packages for the club.

After former chairman Mick Higgins stood down late last year, Mr Aspinall took the reigns just over two months ago but now a promotion by his employers, Asda, has led to his decision.

Leigh's chief executive, Chris Healey, confirmed that Mr Aspinall had resigned due to pressure of work.

"I know what a very difficult decision it's been for Stan to make," says Mr Healey. "Previously he had a senior regional management role within Asda and was based mainly in the north of England. But now he's taken on a national job that would severely curtail the time he could devote to Hilton Park. he's stepped down in the best interests of Leigh RL." Mr Healey is adamant that Mr Aspinall's change of circumstances is the only reason for the decision. "There's been no fall out or split on the board. In fact we've spent the last few days trying to take Stan out of his decision and come up with a compromise solution," he says.

The loss of Mr Aspinall is the second high-profile member of the management team to leave Hilton Park. Karen Gunn, the club's commercial manager, has left to take a new job outside the sport.

"The two decisions are totally unconnected," Mr Healey points out.

Leigh won't rush into making a new appointment. "We'll let things settle down this week but in the meantime I will be talking to outside parties who may be interested."