Otley Town Football Club can announce that Harley Hirst has resigned from his position as joint first team manager. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Harley for his dedication and efforts during his tenure. His commitment to the club has been invaluable, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

We are pleased to confirm that, following a meeting of the committee last night, Chris Holland has been named sole first team manager. An assistant manager will be appointed in the coming days to support Chris and the wider coaching staff.

Kai Arter, Chairman: “While disappointed to see Harley depart, we respect his decision. Harley has been a dedicated and passionate leader, and his contributions to the club's growth over the last 18 months will always be appreciated. He is always welcome at the Old Showground, and we hope to see him at future matches and events.

"We are excited to see the continued development of the first team with Chris as first team manager. Chris has a history of delivering success independently of Harley, most notably securing promotion for Thackley's West Yorkshire League side in his first season as manager. We wish Chris the best of luck and look forward to seeing the first team thrive under his leadership.”

Chris Holland, First Team Manager: “I am grateful to the committee for the faith shown in me to finish the project we have started. Harley is one of my closest friends away from football, his reasons for leaving the club are sincere and the right thing for him. It's been a pleasure to share a dugout with H at a third club! Any success the club goes on to achieve will be on foundations he worked very hard to build.

There are both short and longer term changes I will seek to make as first team manager, but our primary objective remains promotion and I have every confidence that this is attainable in 24/25.”

We are also pleased to welcome Liam Marsh to the coaching staff. A well-decorated manager in his own right, Liam will work alongside Jordan Marsh with our Alliance side following the recent departure of Declan Parnell.