John Barnes steps down as first team coach at Cymru North club Prestatyn Town

Prestatyn Town have announced that John Barnes has resigned from his position as first team coach.

Known popularly as “Barney”, Merseyside-based Barnes joined the Seasiders in January 2022.

He was part of a three-man management team also comprising Andrew Ruscoe and Paddy Hamid which ensured that despite a long run of disappointing results, the Seasiders avoid relegation from Tier 2.

Town now face a new battle in obtaining a Tier 2 licence to be able to compete in the Cymru North next season. The club was turned down by the FAW’s First Instance Body last week, but has confirmed it will appeal.

Prestatyn are now without both a first team manager and coach but aim to make new appointments soon.

Club chairman Jamie Welsh said: “We would like to go on record and thank John for all the help he has given the club, both on and off the field. We all know that you’ll be sadly missed at Bastion but wherever you end up next, we know you’ll do a fantastic job.”

In a short statement, Barnes added: “I loved my time with the club, and helping the club stay safe. It was a great experience, a massive thank you to the backroom staff I worked with, the players and especially the supporters who followed us to safety. I wish the club all the best for the 2022/23 season.”