91Èȱ¬

Bristol Rovers boss John Ward wants to appoint a new assistant with previous managerial experience.

Shaun North has been Rovers' number two since 2011, but has not been offered a new deal for next season.

Ward, 62, is looking to rebuild his backroom team after agreeing a new 12-month rolling contract.

"We're looking for someone with managerial experience. We want someone who knows what this league is about," he told 91Èȱ¬ Radio Bristol.

"We've not approached or spoken to anyone but I've had a number of enquiries so it's a pretty open book at this stage."

North was brought to the Memorial Stadium by former Pirates boss Paul Buckle.

He took charge of first-team affairs following Buckle's dismissal in January 2012 before continuing in his previous role during Mark McGhee's 11-month tenure.

Speaking about the decision not to renew North's contract, Ward added: "It wasn't a question of him not doing his job. He's been so supportive, as have Marcus [Stewart] and all the back room staff.

"We just feel we need to move in a different direction.

"I've got nothing but praise for him and if other people ask for a reference for his services, then I'll give him a good one."