LIONS coach Les Holliday is quitting Gigg Lane at the end of the season.

The under-pressure boss, whose side have lost seven out of their first 10 Northern Ford Premiership matches, says he has taken the club as far as he can and newly appointed assistant Mike Gregory will replace him next term.

Lions chief executive Tony Barrow has described the move as 'amicable' and thanked Holliday for his contribution.

He said: "Les told us of his decision last week and recommended we brought Mike in so he could slowly take charge. Les has always had the club at heart, as this gesture demonstrates.

"Mike's appointment will be great for the club and we believe he will take us forward."

Holliday leads the Lions into battle at home to third placed Leigh Centurions on Sunday. Meanwhile, Barrow is urging all Rugby League fans, amateur clubs, schools and local community groups to back the Lions' partnership with Manchester Children's Hospital's Charity.

A special Family Day is being organised for Swinton's game with Oldham at Gigg Lane on Sunday, May 23, 3pm, and sports fans are urged to attend.

The event, which is the brainchild of Lions' development officer John Prince, a past patient at the hospital, is being sponsored by the Lions' Company Club - a group of businesses dedicated to building a long-term future for the Lions and their work in the community.

On the day, up to 25 long-term sick children and their helpers will be making use of the excellent facilities at Gigg to enjoy the day's activities.

It is also hoped that two of the children will be mascots for the day.

Lots of family fun is planned, including a parade, fancy dress contest, primary school tag rugby finals, face painting, clowns and magic plus many other events.

Swinton Lions have arranged a special cashback opportunity for everyone who attends. By purchasing a ticket prior to the game, adults £8 and children and OAPs £3, the Lions will donate 40 per cent to the children's hospital charity fund.

Tickets are available from Company Club members, the Lions' club shops at Station Road, Swinton and Gigg Lane, Bury.

The Lions' players have already agreed a long-term commitment to the hospital charity by arranging on-going visits along with club mascot Vinny the Lion.

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