York Acorn ARLC were today seeking a new head coach after joint-bosses Alan Hebblethwaite and Mick Calam resigned.

Both cited work and family commitments for their stepping down, and the club have confirmed there are no hard feelings.

In another blow for the Blue and Golds, 'A' team bosses Kev Warters and Mick Lumby have also called time, leaving the Thanet Road club looking for even more coaching staff.

Coincidentally, the resignations mean that every one of York's senior rugby league clubs have parted company with their first-team coaches at some stage in the present season.

Hebblethwaite explained his new job meant he would be unable to get to matches, while Calam had new family commitments so neither could put in the necessary time.

Warters and Lumby also have new work and family commitments, respectively.

All four are to stay with the club, although their new roles were yet to be confirmed.

Hebblethwaite said: "It's a shame both Mick and I had to step down. Not being involved with the first-team on a Saturday will be a massive wrench.

"We've been there for three years and I think the lads need someone new to look up to to take them on a bit further. There's a nucleus of a very good side there but they need more leadership than I will be able to provide."

Acorn spokesman Paul Lumby said: "The club would like to thank them for their work and wish them all the best.

"We're very pleased and proud of what has been achieved by Alan and Mick. They've certainly turned things round this season with the fact we've finished in the top four (of National Conference League division two) and their policy of giving youngsters a chance has proved successful and has stood the club in good stead.

"Whoever takes over will have a solid basis to work from and we hope we will be pushing even harder for promotion."

Acorn first-team's NCL campaign has already ended, but the 'A' team still have one Yorkshire League division three fixture and Alliance Cup matches remaining. Warters and Mick Lumby will see out the season before stepping aside.

Paul Lumby added: "The 'A' team have enjoyed an excellent season and with a bit of luck could have finished in the top four.

"Many of the 'A' team have made the step into the first-team, while the youngsters coming through is again a pleasing aspect and one that further enforces the club's policy of blooding young players."

Anyone wanting to apply for any of the vacant coaching roles at Acorn should do so in writing to director of coaching Alfie Hill, York Acorn ARLC, Thanet Road, York. Applicants for head coach would preferably have the necessary coaching qualifications as befits a NCL coach.

Amateur rugby league takes a break this weekend because of the Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Challenge Cup final at Murrayfield on Saturday. St Helens and Wigan will contest the final.

Updated: 12:02 Thursday, April 25, 2002