Familiar face returns to Ashton Town

Dempsey had been in charge at Widnes, after a short spell with Atherton Collieries.

He rejoins Town for a second time after the shock departure of Glynn Hurst last month.

Town chairman Mark Hayes said: "Demps left us in third place in the league after a promotion and a cup win.

"We work very well together and I am truly excited to be doing it again.

"Huge thanks to Widnes for allowing the approach and of course Terry Smith, who leaves us as interim manager with two wins and a draw.

"This quite simply and definitely a case of unfinished business. Huge thanks to all applicants."

Dempsey added: "Really pleased to be coming back to Ashton Town.

"There is a massive sense of unfinished business and I’m ready to help the club progress!

"Thanks to Mark for trusting in me and asking for me to return."

Interim boss Smith tweeted: “Disappointed not to get the manager position. Good luck for the season boys.”

Special offer: Get 15% off our digital sports subscription - read unlimited Wigan Athletic and Wigan Warriors stories for less than 60p a week! Click here