Busy week for Whitby

Jan 13 2008 by Darren Kelso, Sunday Sun

IT’S been a busy seven days for Whitby Town.

The UniBond League Premier Division outfit began the week by officially appointing Phil Brumwell and Graeme Clark as full-time joint managers.

And they ended it by turning down a substantial bid for star striker Danny Brunskill from Gateshead.

The 20-goal frontman was the subject of a £5000 bid from the Tynesiders, with an extra £2000 if they gained promotion.

However, chairman Graham Manser rejected the approach for Brunskill, who is under contract with the club until 2009.

“I’d get lynched if we sold Danny,” he said. “And who could we get to replace such a great striker?”

The appointment of Brumwell and Clark was made following a spell which has seen the Blues win six league and cup games since the end of October.

Brumwell originally took over the reins as caretaker boss after Lee Nogan quit, and Clark – formely in charge at Spennymoor and Tow Law Town, among other clubs – was brought in to add some experience – and the pair have done well enough to convince the club they can take on the role permanently.

Manser added: “Since Phil and Graeme took over, they have brought in some proper UniBond League players which has stabilised and improved playing performances.

“But we know there is still room for further improvement and we hope progress will be made up the table.”

GATESHEAD’S bid for Brunskill came after they agreed to release striker Ian Robson.

The 28-year-old has rejoined his former club Whickham, where he scored 130 goals in a five-and-a-half-year spell at the Glebe, before joining Consett last season.

Manager Tony Ainley said: “I’m delighted to have Ian back at the club, and we’re hoping he can help us to promotion from Division Two this season.”