WINNINGTON Park RFC have confirmed changes to their coaching structure, including the return of a former head coach in a different role.

This follows the resignations of Garry Miller and Ben Elliot, who have stepped down from their roles having led the team for the past two seasons.

To replace them, Mike Penny steps up to the head coach position having led the club’s second XV to a second-place league finish last season following previous spells as a coach with neighbours Northwich and Cheshire Police.

Assisting him will be Matt Farr, who led Park to two promotions and a Cheshire Bowl triumph in 2018 during a previous spell as head coach at Burrows Hill.

Former Park player Richard Querelle also joins the coaching team having also coached at Northwich recently alongside a stint at Birkenhead Park.

Club chairman Paul Dean was keen to pay tribute to the departing Miller and Elliot, hailing them for bringing “a more professional approach” to the club.

“Under the stewardship of Garry and Ben, the club have cemented their place in Regional 2 North West league following our promotion at the end of the 2021/22 season,” he said.

“We also had the memorable Papa John Shield triumph at the end of last season.

“They have brought an exciting brand of rugby to the club and a more professional approach.

“Ben as player-coach was also instrumental in our success as a very important player for the club.

“We wish both Garry and Ben well and we are sure they will continue to support the club in the future.”

Preparations for the new season at Burrows Hill are well underway, with pre-season training to start on July 2 ahead of the campaign opening up in September.

Players are actively being recruited to bolster the squad and anyone interested in joining the senior set-up, regardless of experience, is urged to contact director of rugby Dave Allcock on 07554050134 or email dave.allcock@hotmail.com.