Blackmore leaves Leigh post

Former Leeds and Castleford centre Richie Blackmore has stepped down from his role of General Manager at Leigh Centurions.

Blackmore, 43, joined the Centurions’ off-field staff at the start of last season, as they looked to recover from a difficult period which almost saw the club fall in to administration last autumn.

He said: “It is with great regret that I am to inform you that I will no longer be a part of the Leigh Centurions team moving forward. Regrettably with my family we have come to the conclusion to return home to New Zealand and explore other opportunities. 

“On behalf of myself and my family I would like to thank everyone for their wonderful gestures and wish the club all the very best as they continue to plot their way toward Super League.”

During his period with the club, Leigh launched their “We beLEIGHve” campaign, ahead of the anticipated Super League application process in 2014.

However, the future make-up of Super League remains blurred by ongoing talks, and rumours about the possible return of promotion and relegation.

Leigh CEO Trevor Barton MBE said: “On behalf of everyone at the club, particularly the PSG, we are sad that Richie is leaving us – He has a real passion for the game which he genuinely shares when asked. We hope his experiences with us will stand him in good stead for whatever the future has in store. We wish him all the very best.”

Leigh finished second in the Championship last season, but missed out on a place in the Grand Final, losing to eventual winners Sheffield in the elimination semi-final.