LEE Duckworth’s Northwich Victoria backroom team will undergo some reshaping for the 2026/27 season.
Since the defeat to 1874 Northwich in the Midland League Premier Division play-off final, assistant manager Jack Turner and fitness coach Kevin Street have announced their departures.
Turner said: “It’s disappointing we couldn’t quite take that final step and get the club closer to where it belongs, but I truly believe it’s coming.
“This wasn’t an easy decision, but with changes in my family situation and the travelling to Runcorn, it feels like the right time.”
Turner has been an integral part of the club’s recent journey, and his passion and dedication will be missed by everyone at Vics.
"The ‘brains’ of the operation! Jack’s become a good friend and he’s fantastic round the place,” said Duckworth.
“He’s been brilliant for the club for the past 18 months and the club owes him a lot of gratitude.
“He will be sorely missed and his contribution can never be underestimated. Whatever Jack decides to do I’m sure he’ll make it successful."
Turner said the players he has worked with have been ‘class’ and he had a message for them.
“The effort, attitude and togetherness has been spot on, and to go from mid-table to pushing right up at the top end says everything about you as a group,” said Turner.
“It’s been a pleasure working with you all.”
He added: “Big thanks to Lee as well. I’ve got no doubt he’ll keep things moving in the right direction and hopefully finish what we’ve started.”
Turner pointed to being grateful for the support of the fans, too.
“You’ve been unbelievable home and away, backing us every step of the way,” he said.
“You’ve made me feel like a proper Trickie, and I’ll be back to have a beer in the stands with you.
“I can honestly say I’ve become a fan of this club because of you.”
Street also had some parting words.
“Really enjoyed working with everyone there,” he said.
“The fans have been great and it was a good first season for Lee!
“Lovely people and I hope to see you all again soon."
Duckworth signed off: "Kev Street - a true football legend, he’s not been able to make it all the time but when he does you can tell as the mood lifts.
“He’s a top-drawer coach and even better person, he’ll be sorely missed but hopefully he won’t be a stranger and we’ll see him cheering on the lads when he gets chance."
Vics finished the league campaign in second place, narrowly missing out on top spot and the automatic promotion place to Hanley Town.
Chairman Ian Egerton is eager to build on the momentum achieved in the 2025/26 season and the support shown, especially in the 1,200 crowd at their Apec Taxis Stadium home in Runcorn for the play-off final.
“The noise, the colour, and the passion inside the ground was something truly special,” said Egerton.
“Standing in front of you all was one of the proudest moments I’ve had in football, and despite the disappointment of the result, it only deepened my belief and determination to keep driving this team forward.”
He added: “Any neutral in the crowd would have seen it clearly, Northwich Victoria has an incredible, loyal, and passionate fanbase.
“The atmosphere you created was one of the best I’ve experienced in a very long time, and it showed just how much this club means.
“My responsibility, and the club’s, is to build on that and bring even more of you through the gates next season - because together, we are stronger.
“There is no hiding from the fact that the day didn’t end the way we all dreamed it would.
“Credit must go to 1874, who managed the occasion well and took their chance when it came.
“For us, a long and demanding season and tired legs finally caught up with us, and we didn’t have the response we wanted.
“But what can never be questioned is the effort, commitment, and sheer togetherness this group of players has shown alongside you throughout the season.
“Whatever happened on the pitch, this season has given us memories that will live long with all of us.
“Moments that reminded us why we love this football club, why we invest our time, our voices, and our hearts every week.
“Those memories are what I will take into the summer break, and they will drive everything we do as we prepare to go again next season.”
