Talbot leaving Hornets

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Hornets coach Ian Talbot gets a hug and a kiss as he steered the club to their first trophy in 91 years in the Championship One Final in 2013

Hornets coach Ian Talbot will leave the club when his contract ends in November.

Talbot, who is a member of the Heroes of Hornets Hall of Fame after steering the club to their first trophy in 91 years in 2013, has served the club for three years after joining from partner club St Helen's.

2014 saw Hornets finish in the highest position in the rugby league ladder since 2007 and the 2015 season saw Hornets record their highest percentage win rate since 2003.

Following a season review by Talbot and the board, it has been decided that the reins pass to a new coach to reinvigorate performances and drive the club towards the goal of being a sustainable Championship club.

Talbot said: "Following the conclusion of the season I have decided to return to Saints to carry on my coaching career.

"I would like to thank everyone involved with the Hornets, members, fans, players and staff that have welcomed me and my family and helped us to create memories and friendships that we will always fondly remember.

"The biggest thank you goes to Mark Ryan, Walter and the rest of the board that had the courage to give me a shot in the first place and have backed and supported me throughout.

"I will always be thankful of the opportunity to coach such a famous and prestigious club but now I am looking forward to the next stage of my professional development."

Hornets Chairman Mark Wynn said: “On behalf of everyone at the club I would like to thank Ian for all his hard work and sacrifices over the last three years.

"We are looking for someone to take Ian’s work forward and both Saints and ourselves are keen to maintain a link that has driven us forward and delivered success to both clubs."

Hornets are look to appoint a replacement and expressions of interest are being sought ahead of closing on Wednesday 30 September.

Interested candidates should email ryan.bradley@hornetsrugbyleague.com

All applications are treated as confidential.