PAUL McDowall has been appointed by Nelson’s next first team manager.

McDowall will be hoping to build on predecessor Jon Westall's success of last season, and he comes to the club after almost joining 11 years ago.

In his time at Barnoldswick United (and latterly Town) he collected the West Lancashire First Division title and a Craven Cup, and in 2007 as player manager, became the first man to steer a reserve team to Craven Cup success.

Fran Powell will be player/assistant manager.