GARETH Piercy has been appointed as interim manager of Welsh Alliance division one club Penrhyndeudraeth until the end of the season.

Piercy, who is a former manager of the club, will replace Julien Jeffery, who stepped down last month, and will be assisted by Andy Collins.

“The Club would like to announce that one of our former managers, Gareth Piercy, has offered to take over as interim manager until the end of the seasons,” a club statement confirmed.

“Gareth joined the Club as a player in 2007/08 and he took over as player-manager the following season.

“Following a successful 2010/11 season, winning the Kon-X Wales and Moorings Cups (Caernarfon & District League), and with the Club on the verge of promotion to the Gwynedd League for the 2011/12 season, Gareth stepped down as manager due to personal reasons. He has also had a spell as manager of Pwllheli.

“We thank him for taking over the managerial duties until the end of the season and wish him all the best for the remaining 12 games."It added: "It was with great reluctance that we announced that Julien Jeffery had decided to step down as manager with immediate effect. "After a lengthy period of searching for a new manager during the summer, Jiw accepted the offer to take over and return to the Club where he had a spell as a player in the late 90s. "The Club would like to thank Jiw for all his time and efforts this season."Meanwhile Welsh Alliance division two club Gaerwen confirmed that their chairman Mathew Thomas has decided to step down from the position.

“It is with regret that we announce the resignation of Chariman Mathew Thomas,” the Club confirmed.

“The club would like to put on record it’s sincerest thank you for all the hard work that Mathew has put in as Chairman of the club over the past years.

“During Mathew’s tenure as chairman, a number of significant improvements have been made on and off the pitch. From new changing rooms and ground improvements, to achieving the club’s highest position in the Welsh Pyramid last season. Mathew really has taken the club on to the next level over the four years.

“His energy and commitment will be sorely missed, but there’s no doubt he can leave with his head held high and look at the four years with fond memories.”

Thomas said: “I’m sad to say I’m stepping down as Chairman of Gaerwen FC.

“One thing is for certain, I will never stop supporting this club, as it has been part of me for such a long time and I have fond memories.

“For me, it is all about family time, and I am going to be spending as much time with them as possible.”.