York City Knights have appointed assistant coach James Ratcliffe as director of rugby.

His role includes overseeing the coaching structures and the players.

He will also look for potential new signings as well as continuing to work with player-coach Paul March in training and on match days.

Ratcliffe said: "I am pleased to be staying with the Knights next season. We have come a long way with a relatively young side."

He added: "I'm sure we will see some big improvements again next season now that the majority of the players have experienced National League Rugby.

"We feel that the coaching structures we are putting in place will give us some stability which can only improve the club as a whole."

Knights general manager Ian Wilson said Ratcliffe's appointment was crucial for the club.

Both James and Paul are highly regarded by all of the players and to have them both at the club next season is a major boost General manager Ian Wilson

"He has had a big influence on the club this season and by keeping the same coaching team we will have some continuity.

"Both James and Paul are highly regarded by all of the players and to have them both at the club next season is a major boost."