Pic: Slimbridge FC
SLIMBRIDGE have started the search for a new manager after parting company with Leon Sterling following Tuesday's home defeat to Bridgwater Town.
The Swans have lost five games in a row in the Evo-Stik League Southern Division One South & West and slipped down to 16th in the table.
The defeat to Bridgwater spelt the end for Sterling's time in charge of the club with both parties agreeing a change was required.
Sterling, a former captain of the club, joined the Swans as assistant James Cole in 2007 before taking over as manager in the summer of 2010.
He led the Gloucestershire outfit to promotion to the Southern League for the first time in their history after finishing third in the Western League Premier in 2014-15.
However, the club will now look to go in a different direction and have invited applications for the manager's job as the Swans look to remain at Step 4.
A club statement read: “It is with great sadness that Slimbridge FC and their manager Leon Sterling have decided to part company by mutual consent.
“Assistant manager Freddy Ward has been put in temporary charge of the team until further notice.
“Slimbridge FC would like to place on record their sincere thanks to Leon for the tremendous amount of work that he has done for this club both as a player and a manager.
“Slimbridge FC and Leon have departed on good terms and both Leon and his family will always be made most welcome at Thornhill Park.”
