PAUL Dean says Winnington Park can go on and enjoy new ‘glory days’ after taking over as chairman on Tuesday.

He told members, during the club’s annual meeting at a packed clubhouse, that focus at Burrows Hill would return to the senior teams following a successful rebuild off the field.

However he insisted a policy of not paying wages to players will stay in place.

“We’re in good shape,” he said.

“But now we’ve sorted other things, it’s time to restore our first team back to where we think it should be.

“And I think we have the foundations in place to do exactly that.”

A proposal to appoint former first-team regular Dave Allcock as director of rugby was approved unanimously.

Matt Farr, who he played alongside as part of a Park side that reached the National League, will report to him as head coach.

He took training outside while Dean outlined his vision for the club moving forward.

Winnington could only finish sixth in South Lancs/Cheshire Division Two last season, but they hope to have a side capable of challenging for promotion when a new campaign starts in September.

Dean said: “I want politics to be left at the door. There’s no place for it here.

“Instead we’ll remind people of our core beliefs, and that’s to promote a culture where everybody aspires to improve – whether that’s pulling a pint or putting on a shirt to play.

“We come here, like thousands of others have done before us, because we have a shared love for rugby.

“Our mates are here for the same reason, so let’s not let in negative thoughts. That’s when we lose sight of where we’re trying to get to.”

Dave Snasdell will be assistant chairman, while Paula Bradbury is chairman of ladies’ and girls’ rugby.

Earlier, former chairman Terry Jones – who resigned in March – received a prolonged standing ovation after breaking down while delivering an emotional ending to his report.

He could not finish, and instead applause replaced his final sentence.

Dean said: “If I can do even a tenth of what Terry did, then I’ll be really happy.

“He’s a legend here, and his drive, tenacity and unswerving commitment to the club is an example to all of us.”