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Chorley FC have released a statement confirming that manager Andy Preece has left and moved to Scunthorpe.
'Confirmation this evening that Chorley Football Club have reluctantly agreed a compensation package with Scunthorpe United, which will see Andy Preece move on to the National League outfit to become their new First Team Manager. Assistant Manager, Chris Anderson, will also be joining Andy as part of the move.
Naturally, this is disappointing news for everybody connected with Chorley Football Club, but we fully understand Andy's decision. Opportunities of this nature do not arise often and, after careful consideration, it became clear that this was one he felt he could not turn down.
Andy leaves Victory Park having made an outstanding contribution to the football club, both on and off the pitch.
He first arrived at the Club in July 2018 as Assistant Manager and Director of Football. During that time, he helped guide the Magpies to promotion from the National League North and establish Chorley among the leading clubs in non-league football. Andy stepped into the manager's position in May 2022 and has continued to drive the club forward.
Since becoming manager, Andy has consistently led the team into the promotion picture, securing play-off finishes and representing the football club with the upmost integrity. His experience, professionalism and relentless work ethic have ensured that Chorley has continued to be competitive, year on year.
Beyond first-team football, Andy's impact across the football club has been immense. He has played a major role in the successful development and growth of the Steven Gerrard Academy programme at Chorley, helping to increase participation numbers and strengthen opportunities for young people to progress through football and education.
His commitment to developing people has extended throughout the club, supporting coaches, staff, volunteers, and players in a variety of different roles and helping to create a culture where individuals have been encouraged to learn, grow and fulfil their potential.
Andy’s contributions therefore extend far beyond results, league positions and points totals. He has helped shape the modern structure of this football club and leaves behind foundations that will continue to benefit Chorley Football Club for many years to come.
The Board would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Andy for everything he has given to the Club over the past eight years. He leaves with the gratitude and respect of everyone associated with Chorley Football Club.
Football continually evolves, and this now presents an opportunity to begin an exciting new chapter.
The Board will now begin the process of identifying and recruiting a successor.
In the meantime, footballing operations will be overseen by our Chairman, Jamie Vermiglio, supported by senior members of the playing squad and football staff, until a new First Team Manager is appointed.
We would like to reassure supporters that plans for the future remain ambitious and unchanged. The football club remains fully committed to building on the progress achieved over recent years and ensuring that Chorley Football Club continues to compete at the highest level possible both on and off the pitch.
Everybody at Chorley Football Club would like to wish Andy, Chris and their families every success in the future and thank them for their dedication, hard work and commitment to the Magpies.'