CRAIG Bentham has been appointed as Silsden's new assistant manager ahead of the 2018/19 Hallmark Security League Premier Division campaign.

His appointment follows the departure of Matt McNeil, manager Danny Forrest's assistant for two years and the defensive coach.

McNeil has overseen the best defensive record in the division this season.

Bentham brings a wealth of experience after playing spells at Bradford City, Farsley Celtic and Thackley. After making an enormous contribution to the 2017/18 title winning season, he is seen as the ideal appointment.

Meanwhile, Brian Blackwell joins Silsden as head of youth development and first team coach. He specialises in the development of young players and will come in to oversee the U21 set up while strengthening the junior to senior pathway at the club.

After four successful years in the junior section at Guiseley AFC, Blackwell steps in to the new challenge where he will also be involved in the first team set-up.

Jamie Longley takes the role of Under-21s manager alongside Russell Waite, who becomes u21s assistant manager. Longley has a long-standing affiliation with the club and was on the coaching team for both the first team and u21s during the 2017/18 season.

Longley played in the NWCFL for a number of years and has knowledge of young players in the local area.

Waite joins the club after assisting Blackwell in the junior ranks at Guiseley and will bring a wider knowledge of youth development from further afield.

Andy Henson will continue in his sports rehabilitation role, Kev Knappy will continue as the club’s goalkeeper coach, and Clive Murgatroyd will continue in his role as a coach.

Along with McNeil, Paul Evans and Kevin Whitaker will both leave their respective roles at the club. Whitaker steps down from the u21s set up but is still an integral part of the club as manager of Silsden u13s.

Forrest said: "I'm delighted that Craig has taken up the role of assistant manager.

"He has been brilliant on and off the field since joining and has really immersed himself in the club.

"We've known each other a long time and I feel we are cut from the same cloth in football terms.

"His whole persona and professionalism epitomises what we're trying to do at the club.

"The lads already have huge respect for Craig and I’m sure it will prove to be a popular and successful appointment.

"Brian Blackwell brings a wealth of experience in terms of youth development as well as enthusiasm, passion and drive which is exactly what the club needs.

"I always intended to look at the club holistically and Brian has the skills and qualities to strengthen the junior to senior pathway.

"Brian will also assist with coaching the first team which should allow a strong culture to be bread throughout.

"Jamie is another person who I'm delighted to have as part of our coaching staff.

"He's hungry and wants to learn. He has a long standing affiliation with the club and a knowledge of local players.

"He impressed me last year when he got involved coaching the u21s and first team.

"With Brian overseeing and mentoring, I believe Jamie is ideally placed to be successful and develop young players to be first team ready.

"Russ Waite shares the same enthusiasm and values and will assist Jamie in the u21s set up.

"I would also like to place on record our gratitude to Matt McNeil and Paul Evans who both leave their respective roles."