By MIKE HULME LEIGH RL'S new coach is a home-grown product from their own back yard.

The Division Two club today appointed Keith Latham as the successor to Eric Hughes who quit Hilton Park last month to take a youth development job with Wigan.

Latham, who has held Academy and first team assistant coaching roles at Leigh, is currently in charge of neighbouring National Conference amateur side Leigh East.

And it's Latham's close connections with the Leigh club and the local youth scene that helped sway the final decision.

Although this will be Latham's first senior coaching position at a professional level Leigh believe his infectious enthusiasm for the game, coupled with a deep feeling for the club, are qualities no other candidate could offer.

A former centre with Salford, Latham has specifically asked Leigh to work without a contract and after a succession of full-time coaches starting with Steve Simms several years ago, the job has again reverted to a part time position.

Forty-one years old Latham, who officially takes charge on Monday, will be given a free hand to appoint his own backroom staff.

"It involved a long decision making process before we arrived at the appointment but I'm sure we have got the right man for the job," said Leigh chairman Mick Higgins.

"This club is longing for success and so is Keith. He is a local lad who desperately wanted the job and he is prepared to work flat out to make it a success." "He wants to prove himself as a top-line coach and although we had an impressive list of candidates, Keith's desire and enthusiasm shone through. I'm sure he will bring some stability to the club."

Latham said," It is like a dream come true for me, a Leigh lad, to coach his home town team. I'm desperate to repay the faith the club have put in me."

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