The 39 year old former Welsh international lives in the Ribble Valley and numbers Cardiff City, Coventry City and Tranmere Rovers as his former clubs.

Following retirement through injury, the centre forward has focussed on securing his UEFA A licence and has had coaching roles at Shrewsbury Town and Stalybridge Celtic.

Chair Anne Barker said:
We interviewed three candidates and all five club directors were unanimous that Simon fitted most closely the criteria we set. With his energy and drive, he exceeded others. We believe we have found a young manager who will excite the Shawbridge crowd.”

Anne was also keen to add:
“I was delighted with the calibre of candidate for the role and we're very grateful to all those who applied".

Simon Howarth said:
“I'm absolutely thrilled at the opportunity to move Clitheroe FC forward and to further develop the good work already put in place both on and off the pitch by the chair and directors, and by Simon Garner. It’s an exciting challenge that I can't wait to start and I look forward to bringing an exciting and successful brand of football to Clitheroe FC. I would also hope to be able to name my assistant very shortly."