Bradford Park Avenue have appointed former Ossett Town boss Gary Brook as their new manager.

The UniBond Premier Division club made the announcement this morning, and the appointment takes effect immediately.

Former Scarborough, Blackpool and Halifax Town player Brook will be joined at Horsfall Stadium by assistant Brian Crowther - who was with Brook during his time at Ossett.

Avenue are confident they have found the right man to revive their flagging fortunes after their relegation from Conference North.

Commercial director Paul Grayson said: "We were looking for an experienced manager and Gary fits the bill. We also wanted someone with UniBond League experience. We felt we needed a manager who knew his way around the division."

Brook missed out on promotion with Ossett three seasons ago when the club failed to meet ground grading specifications.

"Gary was very disappointed when they didn't get promoted after finishing second behind Harrogate Town," said Grayson. "He lost half his team the following season and he was always fighting a losing battle after that.

"But I can tell you the pair are very much looking forward to the challenge. In fact I've never known anyone so keen as Gary."

Grayson also confirmed the friendly with Bradford City at Horsfall Stadium on Friday, July 8.

"As far as we are concerned the game is on," he said.