CARL Garner has quit as chairman of Clitheroe – but has swapped boardroom for dugout after being appointed as the Evo-Stik League First Division North club’s new boss.

Garner succeeds Peter Smith in the Shawbridge hot seat after the former Kendal boss took the decision to step down.

It appeared Smith’s assistant Phil Eastwood would take the reigns but Garner decided on Friday to resign as chairman and apply to become the new manager.

“Peter is one of my best friends,” said Garner. “And I really hope that one day he will be back as manager of this football club.

“I spoke to him about this and he encouraged me to do it – and all I say to the doubters is judge me in six months.”