BRADFORD Bulls have announced they have parted company with head coach Mark Dunning by mutual consent with immediate effect.

Dunning took interim charge of the club this time last year, before being appointed permanently in July.

The club finished in a miserable ninth place last term, but made a bright start to this season, with fantastic home wins over Widnes, Toulouse and Sheffield.

But a humiliating defeat at neighbours Keighley Cougars at the end of March rocked the club, and they were dumped out of the Challenge Cup last month after a dreadful fifth-round display at derby rivals Halifax.

The final straw came yesterday, as a pathetic second-half performance saw Bradford lose 46-12 at Barrow, the Cumbrians only having won one league game all season before the weekend. 

Bulls CEO Jason Hirst said: “We would like to thank Mark for his commitment and service to the club and it is disappointing that results have not reflected the hard work and commitment that he has undoubtedly shown.

"He leaves with our very best wishes.”

Dunning said: “Having been at the club for 10 years, it has been a honour and privilege to lead the club as head coach.

"I would like to thank the performance staff, some often going above and beyond, and the players and I wish all concerned the very best for the future.

"To the fans who have followed the club far and wide, loud and proud, I thank you and hope you get the success you badly crave.” 

Assistant coach Lee Greenwood will take over on an interim basis while the club’s search for a new head coach begins.