By John Bullen DAISY Hill FC face the coming challenge in the North West Counties League Division Two with a new-look committee.

Tony Veitch has moved up to the role of President after five years in the chair at New Sirs.

This week's club press release praised the former chairman and expressed gratitude for his 'efforts, commitment and hard work.'

Taking over the hot seat is Steve Mahon, with long time committee man Tony Riley as vice-chairman.

The new club front man is quite clear in his goals. "My first priority," he says, "will be to increase the number of committee men and make sure the club is moving in a forward direction.

"We feel at Daisy Hill that with the two Brians, Richardson and Smith, we have the best management team in the area and, with the football side of things not a problem, the committee and I can concentrate on improving matters around the club."

Big changes have also taken place on the back-up managerial front with former Ashton Town reserve team duo Dave Witter and Peter Hampson coming in to take over the running of the Daisy Hill second team.

Work commitments, allied to his new role in the vice chair, sees Tony Riley step down as physio for the first team. A replacement "sponge man" is being sought and any interested parties should contact Brian Smith on 01942 516767.

Hopes had been high that a new first and second team shirt sponsorship deal was about to be signed, sealed and delivered with a major local company but unfortunately this all fell through at the 11th hour. The whole club is now geared to finding an alternative and again the contact point is Brian Smith on the above number.

The first team finished third from bottom of Division Two last term and team bosses Richardson and Smith are highly optimistic of doing much better this time around.

Richardson says: "The amount of new players wanting to join us has been fantastic. It shows that word is going around the football grapevine that Daisy Hill is the place to be.

"As with all other managers at this time of season, Brian and I have our "hit list" of new players we'd like to get down to the club and of those contacted so far each has shown a desire to come and play for us.

"We realise that the position we are in at Daisy Hill is one of providing a stepping stone for young talented players to come along, play and prove themselves at our level and so progress to a higher standard. Everyone at the club is delighted if we can offer this opportunity for players to step up.

"Training started in earnest this week and will continue each Tuesday at 7pm. We welcome any local young lads who feel they have what it takes to compete at North Western Counties League Division Two level."