Barnes makes the move after leaving Maine Road at the end of last season.

He will be joined at the Silentnight Stadium by Hugh Devlin and Matthew Cavanagh, who will be his assistants, Lewis Clemmett as goalkeeping coach, and Endrit Shehu as first-team coach. 

Shehu is UEFA B qualified, who is currently working towards his A licence, and has also been involved with managing Colne's under-18 team.

A statement on the Barnoldswick website said:  "Matt is passionate about football and wants to strive towards high standards within the football club he is involved with.

"He is currently the North Manchester area co-ordinator for Everton FC academy, starting out as a general scout for Everton FC within the Bury area.  However, after only five months he was offered the role he is currently in.

"Matt has a very good knowledge and understanding of football and an eye for talent, which enables him to identify the standards that are acceptable and appropriate for the different levels of football.

"As a schoolboy he was at Blackburn Rovers` academy and Oldham Athletic`s centre of excellence.

"During his adult playing career he was involved with Salford City, Trafford, Ramsbottom United, Atherton Colls, Nelson, Oldham Town, Walshaw Sports FC and Elton Vale".

Speaking about his appointment, Barnes said:  "I am thrilled and excited to be trusted, along with my management team, to be appointed to lead this fantastic club and build on the excellent foundations that Danny and his team have put in place.

"We are extremely proud, and we are looking forward to a great season.  Thanks to chairman Stewart Airdrie and the board for appointing us, and here's to the future."

Meanwhile, Barnoldswick have bolstered their attack with the signing of Jack Cooper.

The striker joins from Maine Road where he scored 19 goals in 27 games last term.