Chester-le-Street have appointed Grant Crookes as their new manager.

Yorkshireman Crookes made 22 appearances for Hartlepool and another 25 for Darlington in the 80s, and when he retired from playing, moved into coaching with Halifax Town, Wakefield and Bridlington Town. He has also been assistant manager at AFC Emley – when former Darlington midfielder Ian Banks was manager -- Eccleshill United and West Allotment Celtic, where he is currently.

Former long serving Chester-le-Street defender Colin Wake, who retired from playing at the end of last season, has been appointed by Crookes as his assistant.

Chairman Joe Burlison said, "We are delighted to appoint Grant as our new manager. We have been through a very thorough process with a lot of good people coming for interview. The decision was a difficult one, especially with the calibre of some of the candidates. However, Grant brings a fresh approach and has no preconceived ideas. He has decided to retain Colin as his assistant which is a bonus for the club because of his knowledge and experience of the Northern League."

Current Chester boss Stuart Sherwood is leaving the club at the end of the season after 14 years’ service as manager and assistant manager.