Former Carlisle United frontman Andy Preece is back in management.

The ex-Blues striker has been appointed to the top job at National League North side Chorley Town.

It follows the departure of Jamie Vermiglio to Buxton.

It sees former Bury, Worcester City, Northwich Victoria, Airbus UK Broughton and Southport boss Preece, 55, back in the dugout.

He has been part of the set-up at Chorley for the last four years, initially as part of Vermiglio's backroom staff and later as director of football.

Preece, speaking on Chorley's website, said: "I’m delighted to have taken on the role and it feels great to be back in the hot seat.

"Having been with the club for the last four years I know the place inside out and I can’t wait for the season to start.

"We’ve once again got a very talented group of players and our aim, as always, will be challenging at the top end of the league for promotion."

Chairman Ken Wright said it was a "no-brainer" to hand Preece the reins, describing him as "an experienced manager who is well respected in the game."

Vermiglio had been in charge for four years after replacing former Carlisle star Matt Jansen at the helm at Victory Park.

Preece was on United's books from 2003-5 and was a key player in the turnaround in the club's fortunes under Paul Simpson.

He scored ten goals in 45 appearances for the Cumbrians.

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