Last updated 19:43, Thursday, 10 July 2008

GREAT Clifton rugby league club are on the lookout for a new coach after Joe Stewart stepped down following five years in charge.

Spokesman Mark Jones offered his thanks to Stewart, the ex-Haven No2, and said the post gave the new boss the chance to work with a host of eager young players at the Cumberland League club.

Jones said: “We are not expecting miracles. It’s going to be a learning curve for us next season.

“Win, lose or draw, we want to enjoy it. We haven’t had the team spirit for the last couple of seasons and we want it back.

“There are some experienced players but also a lot of young lads, who are all eager to have a go, which is good for the future.

“I want to say a big thank you to Joe for the work put in over the past five years, especially last year, when he worked his socks off. It is really appreciated.”

Clifton were relegated last term and will feature in division two next season. Pre-season training kicks off has already begun.

Jones thanked sponsors Jennings, Market Cross and the Vine Bar for their backing. And he rubbished rumours that the team would not play out of Market Cross next season.

He also congratulated club treasurer Eva Ackerly after she picked up the Allerdale Service Area volunteer-of- the- year award.