CLEATOR Moor Celtic have appointed former Carlisle United academy coach Gareth Agnew as their new first-team coach. 

Agnew has been with the West Cumbrian side, which plays in the West Lancashire Premier Division, for 10 years and had spells at Workington AFC and in the Blues academy. 

The appointment also follows the departure of former Celtic manager Stuart Shaw in May after six months at the Travis Perkins Ground. 

After recently completing his UEFA B license and taking on the role, Agnew expressed his pride. 

He said: "It is an absolute pleasure to be offered this role at Cleator Moor Celtic, this has always been an ambition of mine.

"I've been with the club for over 10 years now and started my coaching career at this club, with my son, who was under sixes at the time.

"Before moving up through the ages to the second team and for the last couple of years coaching the under-18s.

"I can't thank Cleator Moor Celtic enough for the support they have given me, especially Graeme Close and Colin Bell who have most recently supported me through my UEFA B Licence.

Following his appointment, Agnew also discussed how his local football experience will help him in his first senior coaching role. 

He said: "I have also gained some valuable knowledge from working for Carlisle United Academy alongside Mark Birch and Steven Rudd and most recently working with Danny Grainger and Brian Dawson at Workington AFC, who have all been great mentors.

"Finally a special mention to Michael Stones and Barry Fowler who have been there since day one, I hope they can continue to support me on this journey."