TRIBUTES have been paid to Sean Regan following his resignation as Eccleshill United manager.

Regan wants to pursue 'new challenges' after three and half years at the helm, having taken over the reins from Mark Greaves and Hayden Lobley in November 2015.

He took the Eagles back into the Northern Counties East League Premier Division in 2018 thanks to a memorable 3-2 play-off victory at Grimsby Borough.

And United consolidated that success this season with a 10th-placed finish - the highest among the Bradford district clubs in the league.

Thackley boss Patrick Maguire tweeted: "Sean may have been manager of our fiercest rivals but always approachable and I always had a good relationship with him - which will continue. @EccleshillUtdFC have lost a top gaffer there. Brought a wealth of success to their club."

Lee Ashforth, recently installed as joint manager of Campion, echoed that sentiment, stating in a tweet that Regan did 'a fantastic job over his time at Eccleshill.'

Past and present Eccleshill players added to the tributes on social media.

Andrew Cooper tweeted: "That 2017/2018 season won’t be forgotten any time soon," while Sam Bradley wrote: "Shocked and gutted. Loved every minute of my time playing under Reegs. Wish him all the best in his next chapter. Thank you."

A statement on Eccleshill's club website read: "Eccleshill United can confirm the resignation of first-team manager Sean Regan. Regan leaves Eccleshill United with the club's full gratitude.

"Sean has left his duties at the helm after guiding the Eagles to a top ten finish in their first season back in the NCEL Premier Division after promotion in the 2017/18 season.

"Sean Regan has left for setting new challenges.

"Sean has done a tremendous job for Eccleshill United over the past few years, and the club respects his decision of leaving and searching for new opportunities. We wish Sean and his family the very best for the future.

"We'd also like to thank Sean's backroom staff over the years for their tremendous work."