GARY THORNTON will fulfill a “burning desire” by taking over as York City Knights’ new head coach at the end of this season.

The appointment of the former Batley Bulldogs chief and Castleford Tigers under-20s boss as the Huntington Stadium club’s new coach was revealed in The Press today.

And, speaking about his appointment as successor to Huddersfield-bound Chris Thorman, Thornton said: “I am absolutely delighted to be back as a head coach with York City Knights.

“This is a club I have always admired, and I know John (Guildford, chief executive) and Ian (Wilson, general manager) have big ambitions which match mine.

“There are some exciting times ahead with the move to the new stadium, and I am honoured to be a part of that.

“I have had three seasons working in a Super League environment which has benefited me immensely, but have always kept a keen eye on the Championship, with a burning desire to return as soon as an opportunity came along.

“I am thrilled that John and Ian have given me that opportunity with the Knights; an opportunity I am relishing and I can’t wait to get started.

“Although I don’t take over officially until November, I am already working hard with John and Ian, with our main focus being on building as good a squad of players as we can to be challenging the top five or six clubs in the division come end of 2013 season.

“This is a tough division with no easy games, and I know the challenge ahead will be a tough one.

“We need to build a good honest group of players who want to play for York City Knights and who match my desire for success.

“I know York has a band of very faithful fans, and I’m hoping we can swell those numbers next season with some success on the pitch.”