TEMPEST United had a change at the first team helm right on the eve of the new West Lancs League season.

Chairman Alan Westhead explained: "Our manager Tommy Burtonwood told us after one of the Goldline Trophy games that he thought it would be better if he stood down. He felt he had taken the team as far as he could.

"As he got our Reserves promotion the season before last then won the Hospital Cup with the first team last season, following on that sort of fantastic success would be difficult but we respected his wishes.

"We asked our former manager Micky Farnworth if he would like to return and he said yes.

"Everything with Tommy has all been very friendly and he is still coming down to the club and cheering the lads which is just great to see."

Farnworth acted quickly to appoint an assistant bringing in one of the most experienced players locally at this level, Pete Darby. The first game for the two in charge was last Saturday and it could hardly have gone better with Farnworth and Darby overseeing a 6-1 thrashing of BAC Preston.

On Tuesday United drew 2-2 at home with Burnley Belvedere, Ian Horrocks and Richard Collier (scorer of the other two last Saturday) netting. The Reserves won 2-0 at Barnoldswick United with goals from Hardman and Freeman. Tomorrow United travel to Carnforth Rangers. Blackrod Town entertain Freckleton.