ALTRINCHAM Kersal may have just been promoted to the Northern Division North West One but they have already started planning for the new season and announced a top coup.

Sale Sharks academy coach Dave Wilks has agreed to help drive the club forward next season.

Wilks has enjoyed a distinguished professional career, spanning 15 years across a host of top clubs – Manchester, Nottingham, Leeds, Fylde, Sedgley and Sale Sharks, complimented by Lancashire & England County honours.

On his impressive CV includes playing alongside the likes of Mark Cueto and Charlie Hodgson.

However, it was at Stelfox Avenue where he took his first steps on the ladder of his incredible journey – which has seen him playing coaching nationwide and even overseas.

As current head coach at National Two outfit Sedgley Tigers, Wilks is currently on course to steer them to a third place finish after a stint in National One.

Returning to his family club, where his dad John still sits on the Committee, Dave said: “It’s great to be able to come back to AK and still see so many friendly faces. I can’t wait to get cracking and help give something back to the club where some of my fondest memories and greatest friendships were formed.

“I’m really looking forward to working with Chris (head coach Chris Stewart) who I know from old and Jon (forwards coach John Bishop) from my time at Sedgley.

"They have the appetite and enthusiasm, and I’m sure with a little guidance will form a formidable partnership.”

Director of Rugby Chris Smith was understandably beaming as he informed the players of what is a real feather in the cap for AK.

He said: "I’m sure it will be a huge motivation to all aspiring mini and junior players at AK, knowing the Sale Sharks Academy Manager is part of the AK Coaching Team.

"I expect this news will greatly assist in recruitment of youth players at all age groups. In addition it confirms the clubs ambition to build on the promotion and push further.”