Hillmen unveil new first team manager

Glossop North End have confirmed the appointment of former Golcar United boss Ashley Connor, who takes over as the club’s new first team manager following the departure of Richard Brodie. 

Connor joins The Hillmen after a lengthy 11-year spell with the West Yorkshire club, where he enjoyed varying levels of success. 

The Holmfirth based boss guided Golcar from the West Riding County Amateur Premier Division right through to Step 5 football, securing promotion from the NWCFL First Division North via the play-offs in 2021/22. 

Connor’s side were then laterally moved to the NCEL Premier Division, finishing ninth in their debut Step 5 season before going on to record a remarkable third place finish in the 2024/25 campaign, narrowly missing out on promotion. 

Following his appointment, a spokesperson for the club said: 

“After a thorough and competitive interview process, the club were keen to identify a manager with proven success at Step 5, as well as strong knowledge of both the North West Counties and Northern Counties East divisions.  

“With the constant threat of lateral movement between Step 5 leagues continuing to hang over clubs in this region, the board felt it was essential to appoint someone with direct experience of managing successfully in both environments. 

“Ashley’s management style — built on honesty, loyalty, and teamwork — has been widely praised across non-league football. Alongside his extensive coaching background and history of player development, he has shown the ability to build competitive, well-organised sides that play with commitment and consistency. 

“Glossop North End believe Ashley’s appointment represents an exciting new chapter for the club, combining ambition with experience and a deep understanding of the non-league landscape. 

“Further announcements regarding Ashley’s backroom staff will follow in due course.” 

Connor will take to the dugout for the first time tonight (November 4) for GNE's Derbyshire Senior Cup clash with Shirebrook Town.