Last updated at 14:36, Tuesday, 14 June 2011

JON Balm is the new first-team manager at Holker Old Boys.

NEW MAN AT OLD BOYS: Jon Balm

The 53-year-year-old takes over from Dave Smith, who stepped down at the end of last season due to work and home commitments.

Balm, a well-respected figure in local non-league circles who has previously bossed the likes of Dalton United and Barrow AFC under-18s, arrives at Rakesmoor Lane on the back of a 12-month sabbatical from the game.

“I’m really excited and looking forward to the challenge,” said Balm, who was due to meet the players for the first time tonight.

Holker enjoyed their best season in several years in 2010/11, finishing third in North West Counties Division One.

Balm said: “They did very, very well last year, with a strong squad of players.

“The idea is to build on that now.

“I want to keep the squad, make some additions and hopefully, like I have done at other clubs, put some silverware on the table.”

During his year out of football management, Balm spent lots of time watching local teams in action and assessing players.

“I must admit I was surprised by the amount of talent out there,” he said.

“Hopefully we can attract some quality players to the club who want to make the step up to North West Counties level.”

Working alongside Balm will be last season’s assistant manager Maurice Watkin, who has now recovered from a quadruple heart bypass operation.

Holker will begin pre-season training on Monday, June 25.

lThe promotion of Furness Rovers to West Lancs Division One was made official at the league’s AGM. Joining them in Division One next season will be local rivals Dalton United, Crooklands Casuals, Hawcoat Park and Millom.

Vickerstown will be the area’s sole representatives in the Premier Division, from which Freckleton have resigned.

Furness Cavaliers, GSK Ulverston Rangers, Askam United, Walney Island and Ambleside will face some new opposition in Division Two after Burscough Richmond were accepted into the league.

The new West Lancs season starts on Saturday, August 6.

lKirkby United are staging a five-a-side football competition on Sunday, July 10 (1.30pm).

A total of 16 teams are sought to take part, with the winners set to scoop £100 in prize money.

Players and spectators will also be able to enjoy an all-day barbeque and bar. Entry costs £21 per team. For details contact marktaylor@fsmail.net or timifisher@hotmail.co.uk

l Vickerstown will begin open-age pre-season training on Tuesday, June 21, with a second session on Thursday, June 23, both 6.15pm at Earnse Bay.

l The Furness Premier League will hold their AGM on Wednesday June 22 at Hawcoat Park (7.30pm start). All clubs must attend.

First published at 13:05, Tuesday, 14 June 2011
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk