Beavers in, Allen out as Villa ring the changes

The pair were successful in guiding Thornton Cleveleys to the Premier Division title two seasons ago.

But a difficult season in 2022/23 saw Beavers leave before the end of the campaign.

The pair replace Richie Allen who has left Wyre Villa by 'mutual consent'.

Allen helped keep Wyre Villa in the Premier Division last season after winning promotion and the Presidents Cup in his first season.

Beavers and his assistant Gregory join as the Hall Gate Park club embarks on an ambitious rebuilding exercise based on local players.

"We knew what we were coming into after chatting with Kev (chairman Kevin Roskell)," said Beavers, who was speaking to Derick Thomas.

"It's a different situation to what we are used to but we were in a similar position eight years ago at Thornton.

"We had a plan in place then and it's the same now. Trust in the juniors is key and we have that same trust in the youngsters coming through.

"Our past success was based on plenty of commitment and good effort. We dedicated a lot of time and that means you reap your rewards."

Commenting on the tie-in with local club Wyre Juniors, who sent their under 18 players to the first open training sessions, Beavers stressed the importance of an in-depth squad.

"I don't feel you can be successful as a first team without a reserve team behind you for support.

"We're already in touch with Wyre Juniors and they are willing to buy into the transition for their juniors into our seniors.

"I feel the bigger the team and squad the better you will be off the pitch. A reserve team gives you that depth to fall back on and allows lads to come back from injury.

"That why we we so successful the season before last because we had a strong reserve team who were challenging for their league themselves.

"In grassroots football commitment is everything."

On departing Allen, Mr Roskell praised the former Salford City, AFC Fylde and Fleetwood Town centre forward.

"We are so grateful to Richie for the last couple of years. We wouldn't be in this position without him.

"He joined at the time of coming out of Covid and helped to stabilise the club.

"He gained promotion and won the cup in his first season - I'm glad he came on board.

"He met the challenges of rebuilding the team in his second season after the success of his first campaign.

"He promised to keep us in the division and he delivered.

"Unfortunately, things had to change as we now press the reset button and focus more on local players. It was a difficult decision and Richie left by mutual consent."

Beavers is looking to attract new players as Villa set-out on pre-season.

"We've run open sessions so far and know what we are up against player-wise and what's been left.

"That's part of the challenge for me and something I'm looking forward to starting.

"The last two sessions have been full of young players and that's promising. It's exciting time for Paul and me as we want challenges.

"We want to push ourselves as coaches and managers.

"Sometimes you can find yourself complacent when you have good players and good experience around you. This will take us outside our comfort zone.