Manager Steve Wilkes has left Padiham after three and a half years to take charge of North West Counties Division One side, Runcorn Linnets.

The ex-Darwen boss, who has pushed Padiham to the brink of promotion, said: "I'm sad to leave.

"It's a good club and I've got a lot of good friends there.

"But taking charge of Runcorn was too good an opportunity to turn down.

"I'm just really excited about the whole prospect.

"I'm just thrilled, and I can't wait to meet the fans."