The club announced on Friday evening that they had “reluctantly agreed” a compensation package with Scunthorpe United that sees Preece and assistant manager Chris Anderson take charge at the National League club.

It ends an eight-year association with Victory Park club, first arriving as assistant manager before stepping in to the manager’s position in May 2022.

In a strange quirk of fate, Preece stepped up to replace Vermiglio who left the club to take over at Buxton - today’s FA Trophy opponents.

During his time in charge, Preece twice led Chorley to the play-offs, losing on both occasions to the side eventually promoted - Brackley Town and Scunthorpe, respectively.

But Preece’s impact went beyond the first team.

He played a major role in the successful development and growth of the Steven Gerrard Academy programme at Chorley, helping to increase participation numbers and strengthen opportunities for young people to progress through football and education.

His commitment to developing people has extended throughout the club, supporting coaches, staff, volunteers, and players in a variety of different roles and helping to create a culture where individuals have been encouraged to learn, grow and fulfil their potential.

A club statement said: “Naturally, this is disappointing news for everybody connected with Chorley Football Club, but we fully understand Andy’s decision.

“Opportunities of this nature do not arise often and, after careful consideration, it became clear that this was one he felt he could not turn down.

“Andy’s contributions extended far beyond results, league positions and points totals. He has helped shape the modern structure of this football club and leaves behind foundations that will continue to benefit Chorley Football Club for many years to come.

“The Board would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Andy for everything he has given to the Club over the past eight years. He leaves with the gratitude and respect of everyone associated with Chorley Football Club.

“Football continually evolves, and this now presents an opportunity to begin an exciting new chapter.”

The club will now begin the process of identifying and recruiting a successor.

The statement added: “In the meantime, footballing operations will be overseen by our Chairman, Jamie Vermiglio, supported by senior members of the playing squad and football staff, until a new First Team Manager is appointed.

“We would like to reassure supporters that plans for the future remain ambitious and unchanged. The football club remains fully committed to building on the progress achieved over recent years and ensuring that Chorley Football Club continues to compete at the highest level possible both on and off the pitch.

“Everybody at Chorley Football Club would like to wish Andy, Chris and their families every success in the future and thank them for their dedication, hard work and commitment to the Magpies.”