The 55-year-old is only the Magpies’ fourth boss in 12 years - a spell which has seen the football club rise from the depths of non-League obscurity to one of the most recognisable names in the non-League game.

Preece’s appointment to the role follows the club’s philosophy of promoting from within to maintain a high level of continuity and progression.

Preece has a wealth of experience from nearly 25 years in coaching and management including spells with Bury, Worcester City, Northwich Victoria, Airbus UK Broughton and Southport. Not forgetting, of course, his successful playing career in the Premier League and Football League.

He originally joined Jamie Vermiglio’s fledgling backroom team in June 2018, before moving up to the full-time director of football role in the summer of 2019.

Since then, the former Stockport County, Crystal Palace and Blackpool forward, who holds the prestigious UEFA Pro Licence coaching qualification, has had a heavy influence on the on-the-field setup across the entire football club.

Chorley chairman Ken Wright told https://www.chorleyfc.com: “It was a no-brainer to offer the job to Andy. We’re delighted he’s accepted the role and we feel very fortunate to have someone of Andy’s calibre already at the club. He’s an experienced manager who is well-respect in the game and he knows all our players very well”.