RHYL FC assistant manager Richard Williams-Cooke has stepped down from the role.

The JD Cymru North side announced the news on Wednesday evening, with Williams-Cooke citing work commitment as the primary reason behind his departure.

Williams-Cooke was appointed to the role in May 2018 alongside Eddie Maurice Jones as part of the new managerial team, but the popular figure has found it increasingly difficult to attend training sessions and match fixtures during the current campaign.

He said: “I wish everyone at the club all the very best for the future.

“Unfortunately, with a lack of midweek and Friday games my work pattern has meant I miss around 50 per cent of games.

“This has made it difficult to motivate myself if I am honest, and is not fair on the players.

“I have made many friends at the club and will be down to catch up soon.”

Williams-Cooke enjoyed a glittering playing career after making his debut for Denbigh Town as a 16-year-old.

He also enjoyed hugely successful spells at Bala Town, Ruthin Town and Cefn Druids before making the transition into management with his hometown club, securing promotion to the Huws Gray Alliance after a memorable unbeaten championship season in Lock Stock Welsh Alliance Division One.

Managerial stints at Chirk AAA and Oswestry Town followed before Maurice-Jones enticed him back to Denbigh in a coaching role and then to the Lilywhites.

“Rich has been a massive help during his time at Rhyl,” added the Lilies’ boss.

“I would personally like to thank Rich for all the help and support. He will be hugely missed and I wish him all the best.”

The departure has been softened by the recent appointment of Alun Williams as first team coach.