CLITHEROE boss Phil Brown has stepped down after a season in charge at Shawbridge.

A title winner with Lancaster City in the First Division North in 2017, the Myerscough College head of football guided the Blues to sixth in the BetVictor North West Division before the campaign was halted by the coronavirus pandemic.

His assistant Dave McCann has also left the club.

Brown, who also has responsibilities with Preston North End’s academy, has decided not to carry on into a second season as he tries to juggle several commitments.

He said: “Like many, the current situation has made me reflect on my current commitments and although I really enjoyed managing Clitheroe FC last season, I've made the decision not to continue.

“I've met some great people in my short time at the club.

“The chairman, committee, volunteers and supporters all made me feel welcome from the onset.

“The support I received was excellent and I can't thank everyone enough. Take care and stay safe.”

Clitheroe chairman Lee Sharples is now on the hunt for a new boss after Brown brought some much-needed stability on the field, the Blues having finished 18th 12 months earlier.

The one-time Stockport County caretaker manager had guided the club to just outside the play-off places when the season was brought to an abrupt end and declared null and void.

Sharples said: “I would personally like to thank Phil, who has been a pleasure to work with since the moment he accepted the role.

“Phil has always been open and honest, and always kept a clear, open line of communication with myself. I wish Phil all the best for his future whether that is at another club or whether this club was his last.”