Barnoldswick under new management (From Craven Herald)

Barnoldswick under new management after Hall and Airdrie stand down

1:31pm Thursday 24th January 2013 in Sport By Alan Birkinshaw, Weeklies Sports Editor

Barnoldswick Town has a new management team after the resignations of Ben Hall and Stewart Airdrie.

Kevin Richardson, who was the third of the joint managers will now take charge in partnership with striker Paul Fildes on a permanent basis.

The North West Counties League Premier Division club announced the changes after a committee meeting on Tuesday night.

Hall, who has worked tirelessly for the club, wants to take a break from what has become an increasingly demanding role He did step down from the role for a brief time last season, but later returned.

Player-manager Airdrie has indicated that he would like to spend more time with his family.

Club chairman Ian James was quick to praise both men.

“This week saw a very sad end to four years of a very fruitful and harmonious period in the history of Barnoldswick Town,” he said.

“In the time I’ve come to know these lads through their association with our club, we have not only progressed at the speed of light through the football pyramid but in no small way with Kevin making up the three Amigos (his nickname of the management trio), progressed the club off the field as well.

“On behalf of the committee, players and supporters I would like to thank them both for all their hard work, patience and humour, “They have enriched and invigorated the club to make us into what we are today.

“The club must move on and as one door closes another opens and as from today I would like to welcome Kevin Richardson and Paul Fildes as the new management team to the club.

“I’m sure with their experience and the backing of players, supporters and committee that they can keep the club on its upward spiral.”

He added: “On a slightly more humorous note that after speaking to Ben and Stewart I believe that the Sewer End has two more vocal supporters – heaven help you Paul and Kevin.

“Thanks again Ben and Stewart the club will always be indebted to you.” Richardson and Fildes’ first game is home to Congleton on Saturday. Town. They then visit Colne on Tuesday.

Both the new managers will remain registered as players along with Airdrie, but it is expected that their playing commitments will be strictly limited.

Fildes left Town at the end of the last season to become assistant manager at Colne, but returned in mid-season after things did not work out the way he hoped.

He has wanted to get involved with the coaching side of things and now has a big chance.