ICE HOCKEY: Mark Stokes has quit as boss of Flintshire Freeze and announced his retirement from the game.

Player-manager Stokes, who formed the Freeze in 1998, says he can no longer divide his time between the club and his full-time job.

The Canadian also feels, after 15 years of playing top level ice hockey, his body is unable to sustain another season on the ice.

Stokes, 40, who memorably led the Deesiders to the ENIHL Northern Conference title in 2003/04, admits it will be a wrench to leave - but he knows the time is right.

The former Great Britain international said: 'I started Flintshire Freeze from scratch seven years ago and I've loved every minute of it. But it's taken a big toll on me and I've come to realise it's in my best interests to retire.

'It was so hard travelling down on Sunday for matches from my home in Glasgow. Even though I changed jobs at the end of the season and moved to take up a new position in sports development in the Lake District, it is a very demanding role.

'Equally, I've got to be honest with myself and say my body can't handle the wear-and-tear of a full season again.

'I'm doing this for me and it feels like I've lifted a huge weight off my shoulders.'

Stokes put his retirement plans on hold until it became clear what direction the club - who are backed by Flintshire County Council - would take after his departure.

But following the appointment of Gary Shaw, Stokes says the time was right to make his decision public.

He said: 'It was always in the back of my mind throughout last season to retire. Even the thought of making the play-offs was troubling me because I don't know if I could have put myself through another six weeks of hockey.

'But I didn't confirm it because I wanted to see what the council did in regards to how the club would continue.

'I think they've gone with the best option in appointing Gary, who is someone who's been there since day one.'

He's hopeful Shaw can return the Freeze to the higher reaches of the Northern Conference after they missed out on the play-offs last season.

Stokes said: 'I'll be cheering them on all the way and everyone hopes we can get back to challenging for the championship.

'I've had seven fantastic years on Deeside and I'd like to think I've given value for money.

'I'm very proud with what we've accomplished. We've had many great seasons, with one championship year that no-one will ever forget.

'Equally, the fans have been amazing and they've given me nights I will always remember.'