Barrow’s Director of Rugby steps down

Mike Sunderland has resigned as Barrow’s Director of Rugby after overseeing their Championship 1 promotion campaign.

Sunderland, who joined the board last winter following the collapse of the Des Johnston regime and Barrow’s subsequent relegation from the Championship, cited work commitments for the reason behind his exit.

He said: “It has brought me great pride being heavily involved in the forming of the coaching staff and team.

“To recover from the Ashes of the 2011 season and gain promotion has been a fantastic achievement. 

“Not only for the club but for all the loyal fans that make Barrow one of the best supported teams outside Super League.”

Andy Gaffney has now been elected as the club’s new Director of Rugby, and he will work closely with director Geoff Worrall and coach Darren Holt ahead of next season.