THE man who guided Ilkley Town to their highest-ever placing in the football pyramid has left to take up a new challenge.

Manager Greg Beswick is joining Northern Counties East outfit Glasshoughton Welfare.

It means that Simon Armstrong will return as first-team manager as part of a new-look management team.

He will have a new assistant manager in former Guiseley and Brighouse Town player Lee Spires and both will work closely with long-serving head coach Dave Houlston.

Beswick, who worked hard to ensure the club retained its West Yorkshire League Premier Division status, is based in York and his appointment at Glasshoughton will reduce his travelling as well as presenting him with a step up the non-league ladder.

Beswick said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at the club. There has been a lot of success and good memories made with everyone here.

“The main highlights have been winning the district cup, gaining promotion to step seven and consolidating there. Also, we set a club record by making the last eight of the West Riding Challenge Cup and the West Yorkshire League Cup.

“The club is in a great position to continue its’ journey and I wish everybody at Ilkley Town the very best for the future.”

Club chairman Richard Giles said: “Greg has shown the commitment and character we look for in our coaching team.

"He leaves with the club's thanks, best wishes and an open invitation to return.”

Armstrong has pulled together his new management team over the past week.

Spires, who steps up to assistant manager after working with Town's under-21s last season, will continue to play.

Houlston, who has been with the club for 20 years, will continue to provide invaluable insight and experience.

Town have also announced that Pete Trimnell will be taking on the new role of matchday general manager.

Trimmell has been a supporter for many years and will now lead on ensuring home matchdays run smoothly.

Jamie Woodhouse and Jack Simpson will return as the club’s social media team for a second season.

The club is also continuing its partnership with local physio’s outfit PhysioAction into the new season.

Richard Giles said “We are fortunate to have such a strong team. Simon and Dave have been key figures in the club for a number of years and I am delighted Lee and Pete will join the management team. The club has a strong foundation and we are looking to climb up the West Yorkshire Premier League”

The club are recruiting players for the new season. Any player interested in joining should contact Simon Armstrong on 07429 182167.