Due to a change of personal circumstances, Ryan Austin has informed Congleton Town FC that he is unable to continue in his role of first team manager.

In an interrupted season due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Austin led the Bears to the last sixteen of The Buildbase FA Vase.

A spokesperson for Congleton Town FC said: "The club would like to thank Ryan for all of his hard work and dedication over the past twelve months and wish him all the best for the future.

"A warm welcome will always be waiting at Booth Street."

Former Wales international Richard Duffy has agreed to take over the first team manager position and step up from his previous role with the Bears as assistant player/manager.

The club added: "Richard has a wealth of experience, holds his UEFA A License and has a strong ambition to succeed as a manager.

"The change will provide continuity and consistency within the senior football sector of the club and will allow the development seen over the past twelve months to continue."

Duffy fully intends to continue playing and an announcement on his backroom staff will be made in due course.

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Congleton Town has been moved into a different league following a reorganisation of the non-league system by the FA.

Alongside fellow North West Counties League Premier Division sides Hanley Town and Whitchurch Alport, the Bears will be competing in the Midlands Football League Premier Division from next season.