Thackley have named Mark Holstead as their new club secretary.

The man who held the same position at Eccleshill United a few years ago takes over from Mick Lodge with immediate effect.

Lodge had filled the role, which is much more wide ranging than the job description suggests, for the past two seasons. He informed the club of his intention to step down almost a year ago, the retired taxman wants to spend more time with his family.

Holstead said: “I was once an Eagle but now I’m a Dennyboy!

“I haven’t exactly jumped camps though. It is a few years since I was up at Eccleshill but I haven’t been out of the game, I’m a qualified and experienced coach and I have been working here and there with players so I’ve been on the development side rather than the administrative side just lately.

“I got involved at Thackley two years ago when my son started playing for the juniors and a few weeks ago I was approached by a third party regarding the secretary’s job and I met the committee last week.”

Holstead must have impressed the hierarchy at Dennyfield because a few days later he was confirmed as the new man. After a spell at Eccleshill when that club was in a depressing state before Mark Ellis and the RIASA (Richmond International Academic and Soccer Academy) project began, Holstead is looking forward to his new appointment.

“Thackley is a big club with a massive junior section and I hope to add some new ideas and fresh impetus. I felt very comfortable when I met the committee and I have always seen the club as having huge potential.

“The pitch is very good, the clubhouse is well appointed, the facilities are great and the people are a very nice bunch. They always have been, there has always been a lot of mutual respect between Eccleshill and Thackley.

“Thackley are well run and financially sound. Eccleshill are on the up as well, especially after last season, and I hope both clubs will prosper in the coming season.

“I’m very excited to be at this club and delighted to be operating back in the game at this level once again.”