Toolstation NCEL Premier Division
Brett Lovell has stepped up to replace Ian Richards as Penistone Church manager.
Richards has left Penistone after 12 years to take charge at Stocksbridge Park Steels and Church have reacted instantly to install defender Lovell in the hot-seat.
He will be assisted by club stalwart Steve Lenthall – the former reserve team boss – and long-term team-mate Ryan Johnson.
Lovell has been a player throughout the most recent successes at Penistone under Richards – i.e. the promotion from Division One and the NCEL League Cup triumph at Bramall Lane.
His ascent to the throne will be universally approved as the former Stocksbridge defender is well-loved across the Non League community.
His first game in charge is on Saturday in the FA Vase at Bacup Borough.
Ironically his first Penistone game as a player was in the FA Vase in 2014 – but let’s hope it doesn’t go as badly as that occasion!
A statement said: “Penistone Church FC are pleased to say that we have been able to move quickly to appoint Brett Lovell as our new First Team manager. As a club we’re delighted Brett has accepted the offer.
“To anyone at the club and wider afield Brett won’t need too many introductions.
“We know he will have been torn with today’s changes, but the lure of stepping into the hot seat and his first managerial appointment at Penistone Church was an offer he has taken with relish.
“Brett has been able to act quickly under the circumstances appointing Stephen Lenthall as his Assistant Manager and Ryan Johnson as First Team Coach to make up his coaching staff.
“Both ‘Lenny’ and Ryan have proven experience managing, coaching and playing in Non-League football.
“Brett has played some 260 games for Penistone scoring 54 goals and in time will balance any playing time whilst giving 100% focus to being our manager.
“Again we will share more news in the coming days as the dust settles on a very busy 12 hours or so, but for now we wish Brett, Lenny and Ryan the very best of luck as all attention now turns to our FA Vase game on Saturday.”