JOSH Kimber has been chosen as the man to lead Ilkley in their first season in National League Three North.

The talented stand-off takes over the role vacated by Stuart Vincent when he retired after leading the club to successive promotions.

Kimber has played a big part in those successes and was top points scorer in each of those championship-winning campaigns.

His vice-captain will be long-serving forward Iain McKenzie who missed all of last season with a serious knee injury.

Coach Rhys Morgan said: " I am fully confident that Josh will prove to be a good choice. He seems to have taken to the role already and I have been pleased with the way he has responded to the responsibility.

" I believe it will help him develop both as a person and a player. He has been something of a free spirit in the past, but I have complete faith in him.

"He is a very good rugby player and I am sure he will adapt to playing in National League rugby."

The return to fitness of McKenzie is a welcome boost. His experience will be needed in the back row as Ilkley prepare to play at the highest level in their injury.

"Kenzie is Ilkley through and through," said Morgan. "He has a lot of know how and he will work well with Josh both on and off the field."

Kimber is set to have a new half-back partner this season. The experienced James Rowntree, who is also an accomplished goal kicker, has been recruited from Harrogate following the departure of Tom Collard due to work commitments.

Rowntree will be battling for the number nine jersey with fit-again Ryan Cooper. He missed all last season with a knee injury.

Morgan added: "There will be a lot of competition for places all over the park and it is up to the lads to take their chances when they come along."