Shotton Steel are looking for a new coach to lead their charge in Division One North next term.

After guiding the Steelmen to the top tier with promotion last season, head coach Mike Roberts is to step down from his role to devote more time to his family.

Experienced assistant coach John Ketland will take charge at the club on an interim basis, while a permanent successor is sought.

Roberts said: "Working shifts combined with the arrival of a new baby means I don't have the time to give the players the full support they need from a head coach.

"My family has been great in allowing me the time to coach in these last few years and now it's time to focus more of my time on them.

"I'm staying on as assistant coach and hopefully when an appointment is made I'll be able to continue doing that.

"John and I worked closely last season so there will be no major changes in how we go about things. John spent a couple of seasons at Chester playing in the English National Leagues and is looking forward to using that experience to help develop the team further."

A statement from the club has outlined the skills required to fulfill the role and sustain the Steelmen's impressive progress.

It reads: "The head coach will set the playing structure and style of play and, with the assistance of the assistant coaches and team captains, will be responsible for team selection.

"We have a director of rugby who will be responsible for maintaining the link between the different section, but the head coach will have the opportunity to develop greater links if they so wish.

"We try as much as possible to develop players from within the club set up. The majority of our current senior squad having done this.

"Ideally the successful applicant will have played/coached at Welsh National Division One standard or above and will be qualified to at least UKCC Level Two. All interested applicants will, however, be considered."