CHIRK AAA have appointed a new manager ahead of their return to the Ardal Leagues.

Lawrence Wilson has been appointed as the new boss at Holyhead Road, replacing the departing Gary Jones.

In a post on X - formerly Twitter - the club said: “Lawrence is a UEFA B Licence coach who is a current UEFA A Candidate.

“He has previous managerial experience at Wem Town, Llanfair United & Llanidloes Town. He has also managed both TNS & Wem Town Ladies teams.

“Lawrence is a focused individual with some forward thinking coaching methods which we feel make him a perfect fit for our club. We look forward to working with him in an attempt to bounce straight back to Cymru North.”

Promoted Flint Town United have confirmed Jean-Louis Akpa-Akpro (pictured above) is to leave the club after two seasons.

Silkmen boss Lee Fowler said “Jean is someone that has become a good friend for life, as well as a work colleague. His attitude and professionalism can’t be questioned, his laid back approach is infectious on people around him.

“He played for me at two different clubs and has been here for two seasons, and at 39 still has lots to offer. We wish Jean all the best in what ever he does next in football.”

Meanwhile, versatile Airbus player Sam Rickett has confirmed he will remain at the club.

Ricketts started this season in a midfield role, but injuries meant he was switched to the centre of the defence and he made that position his own as the campaign developed.

He told the club’s website: “I’m pleased to have signed for another season, last season was great and we were unlucky to fall short. We have a good group of players here and it will be an interesting league with some good sides in it, but I believe with the squad we have we will be right up there again. We are more than capable of achieving promotion back into the Welsh Prem”

Wingmakers’ boss Mark Allen added: “Really delighted to get Sam signed for another season.

“He has really progressed and developed as a centre half with us and put on some very professional displays since moving there.

“I’m sure he’ll want to continue with that level of performance next season and we are looking forward for him to be an additional leader in the team.”