Garstang chairman pleased with job well done

A 1-0 win over Thornton Cleveleys in their final game saw Lee Baker’s side finish the campaign in ninth place.

Having taken over following Neil Crossley’s resignation earlier this year, Baker also guided Garstang to the Richardson Cup final where they were beaten 4-1 by Charnock Richard last month.

“It’s always nice to end the season with a victory, especially against a good team like Thornton,” Wilding said.

“I think, overall, it’s been a good season with an appearance in a cup final after a change of manager as well.

“OK, we could have finished higher in the league but we’ve brought through some young players and the reserves finished fourth in their league so things are looking good.”

Eyebrows might have been raised when Baker took charge in March, having only returned to the club as reserve team boss last year.

Having been handed the reins permanently, the 30-year-old is putting plans in place for next season.

Former Garstang keeper Neil Beesley will be his assistant while the club also hopes to announce a reserve team manager within a week.

“Neil was a top class keeper for Garstang and the lads know him well,” the chairman said of the new arrival.

“He gets on well with Lee and brings lots of experience to the club.

“We’re well on with planning for next season, sorting out the pre-season and trying to build on what we have.

“We’ve spoken to the players and, as far as we know, all of them will be staying with us next season.”