After a season of consolidation, John George has stood down as first-team manager at Cleator Moor Celtic.

George was appointed a year ago after former Carlisle United and Workington Reds midfielder Stuart Green resigned, having led Celtic to promotion and up to Hallmark Security League First Division North for the first time.

It has not been an easy decision for Maryport-based George to make after he took the job with the proviso he would manage the team for one season, then review things.

He said: “With a very heavy heart, I’ve decided not to continue.

"It has proved an enormous challenge and I’m proud that we’ve been able to stabilise the club in a mid-table berth [finishing in 11th].

“The Hallmark Security League is a very good standard and the demands are great. I’ve found running three businesses and running a football team just a little bit too taxing!

“At the time of accepting the job, I explained to club officials Martin Mahone and Tony Stones that when I did finish that, by bringing in Craig Routledge as my assistant, he would be the perfect replacement to continue to run the team in the correct manner.

“I realise it’s not my job to find a successor but I have recommended to the committee that they should look at him to take over.

“He is of the right age, has a good relationship with the players and has the football knowledge and experience to do a great job as long as the players up their commitment.

“I have sounded him out and believe he would be very interested.”

Chairman John Murphy and Cleator Moor’s committee say they would like to thank George for his commitment and support to the team and the club, and wish him well and hope he continues to support and visit the club.

A decision on his replacement will be made shortly.

Celtic ended their 2018/19 campaign with a 5-0 home win over Daisy Hill, courtesy of goals from Callum Birdsall, Stuart Shaw, Liam Johnston, Thomas Houghton and Darren Little.

Elsewhere in Hallmark Security League First Division North, Carlisle City came sixth, ending their campaign with a 2-2 draw at Lower Breck on Saturday with David Renyard netting both of the Sky Blues’ goals.

City frontman Rob McCartney also was the top scorer from the league (across all competitions) with 39 goals.

He bagged 27 league goals, with only top-scorer Richie Allen, Bacup Borough’s Anthony Hall and Longridge man Jason Hart scoring more league goals than McCartney.