Clitheroe manager Billy Priestley has asked to be relieved of his managerial duties for personal reasons with immediate effect, although he will continue to be a key member of the Clitheroe squad. David Dempsey, has agreed to take over the managerial reins until the end of the season when the Board will review the situation.

Priestley took over the player/manager role at the start of the 2021-22 season and led Clitheroe to its joint highest placing in its time in the Northern Premier Division 1. He continued in the same vein this season, both leading Clitheroe to the third qualifying round of the FA Cup for only the second time in 40 years and the club to the fringes of the play offs. Vice chairman Andrew Jackson said:

“It was with a heavy heart that we accepted Billy’s resignation but we fully understood his reasoning. He has been a key figure in the club’s renaissance over the last two years and is a huge favourite with the fans. We are delighted that he is continuing as a member of the squad. Equally, David Dempsey has impressed the Board with his knowledge and approach in the short time he has been assistant manager, and we wish him every success for the rest of the season, when the Board will review progress. We know all Clitheroe fans will wish both men every success”