FORMER Shakers striker Ronnie Jepson has been appointed as manager Kevin Blackwell’s assistant following the departure of Peter Shirtliff.

Fifty-year-old Jepson made 59 appearances for Bury between 1996 and 1998, scoring 12 goals and was instrumental in helping the club to the title of the Second Division - the third tier of English football - in his first year at the club. He later moved to neighbours Oldham Athletic for £400,000 and then to Burnley before retiring in 2000 due to an Achilles problem.

Jepson said: “It’s good to be back, I have some great memories of this place and a lot of success here. When the gaffer rang me and offered me the job, I didn’t think twice. We had a quick chat and everything was sorted out quickly and I’m ready to go.”