Search is on for new Prestatyn Town manager after ‘Perry’ departs

Prestatyn Town will begin 2026 searching for a new manager following the departure of Gareth Thomas from Bastion Gardens.

And assistant/coach Ryan Turner has also left the Seasiders to take up a new role as manager of fellow Ardal North West club St Asaph City.

Thomas took over as Prestatyn boss in November 2024 following many years in management with the likes of Buckley Town, FC Nomads of Connah’s Quay, Denbigh Town, Conwy Borough and CPD Y Rhyl 1879.

Known popularly as ‘Perry’, Thomas became Seasiders chief at a very difficult time for the club, who were struggling badly in the Cymru North.

His first game in charge was a spirited 3-2 defeat at Flint Mountain, and four more losses ensued before Prestatyn delivered Thomas’ first victory, a 1-0 home success over Caersws.

Only one more win was achieved that season, a 1-0 verdict over Ruthin, and Town finished next-to-bottom of the Cymru North to return to Tier 3 for the first time since 2005-06.

Thomas remained at the helm for the 2025-26 campaign, built a very capable squad, and results in Ardal North West have been vastly improved.

The manager departs with Town in fourth spot in the table and into the quarter-finals of the FAW Amateur Trophy.

Prestatyn had a 100% home league record of seven straight wins before being handed a 4-2 defeat at the hands of Bethesda Athletic on November 26.

On departing, Thomas said: “The last few weeks have been difficult both on and off the pitch and I feel it’s in the best interest to step aside from my role at the club.”

Club chairman James Benbow said management of the team will be done in house “whilst we evaluate candidates for the right manager to move us forward.”

Gareth Thomas’ managerial record at Prestatyn Town
Played 40
Wins 16
Draws 3
Losses 21

While Turner moves on to manager St Asaph, Thomas plans a well-deserved break from the game to recharge his batteries.

Chairman Benbow said: “Pez and Ryan have done an outstanding job as manager and assistant manager.
“Together, they’ve brought in some top-quality players and built a squad that this club can be proud of.
“Not just talented footballers, but a real team- organised, competitive and committed to wearing the badge with pride. It took hard work, long hours, and more than a few headaches along the way.”

Further tributes to Gareth Thomas and Ryan Turner from Prestatyn Town chairman James Benbow

Gareth Thomas

“Perry has decided to step down and enjoy a hassle-free, stress-free 2026. And I say that with a straight face, even though I’m not sure that’s possible, because as we all know… he’s an Everton fan. So stress-free might be a bit ambitious- but if anyone deserves a break from touchline pressure, it’s him.
“Pez, your commitment to this club, your leadership, and your belief in the squad have left a real mark. What you’ve helped build here will last well beyond this season, and everyone connected to the club owes you a huge debt of gratitude.
“So on behalf of the players, the committee, the supporters, and everyone at Prestatyn Town Football Club- thank you, Pez. Thank you, Ryan. Thank you for the hard work, the dedication, the memories, and the standards you’ve set.”

Ryan Turner

“Ryan is now stepping into a new challenge as manager of St Asaph, and we genuinely wish him all the very best.
“He’s earned that opportunity, and while we’ll miss him here, we know he’ll do a fantastic job. Of course, we wish him success in every game apart from the very last game of the season when they (St Asaph) play Prestatyn.”