MARK Ward has walked out on Leigh RMI after less than six months as the club's assistant manager writes Martyn Hindley

The former Manchester City and Everton midfielder became Waywell's third number two of the calendar year back in July after Andy Farrell departed Hilton Park by mutual consent.

And seemingly disillusioned with the present state of affairs at the Conference club, Ward now leaves Waywell with a sleepless Christmas to look forward to as he plans a new sidekick.

"I'm not going to rush into any decisions," asserted the under-fire boss. "I will be taking training myself at the moment, which I have no problems with at all.

"My main priority though is to get three points from our next game, because that is what we need to do to push ourselves closer to safety."

Waywell commended Ward's attitude and achievements in his short second spell with the club.

His first was more productive, as he played a vital role in

the RMI side that won promotion to the Conference in April 2000. But the manager is now likely to turn his attentions to the transfer market, where he has his eyes set on Halifax striker Simon Parke.

Waywell has been searcing for someone to partner Dino Maamria all season, but has failed to get consistent performances from Damien Whitehead, Ged Courtney and Neil Tolson.

He is yet to make a bid for the former Guiseley and Southport front man although it seems only a matter of time after Parke was told he was surplus to requirements at the ex-Football League club last week.