LEE HOWELLS' eight year association with Bath City is over after the manager left the National League South side by mutual consent.
Howells was made boss of the Romans in October 2012, stepping up from assistant manager to replace Adie Britton who became director of football.
The former Cheltenham and Bristol Rovers player initially joined Bath in 2007 and became assistant manager to Britton a year later before moving up to take over as first team boss.
The Romans enjoyed a fantastic start to the season and raised hopes of a return to Non-League's top division but they have since slipped down the table.
They won their first six league fixtures – and were unbeaten in the first nine – but a run of just two wins in 17 fixtures in the National League South has left them in 13th.
Saturday's 4-1 defeat at in-form Dartford was the final straw for Howells, who was clearly frustrated after the final whistle.
He said: “It's been another difficult season for us and quickly something has got to happen – we can't keep saying the same thing.
“I've got to look at myself – I won't shy away from that. We had a great start to the season but have had a poor two months.
“The problem is that you've got a group of people, supporters of the club, who are never going to give me any time to turn it around.
“All the supporters are fantastic but there are a few now that are having a go. I understand their frustration but do they understand mine and the players'?
“I don't think it's fair for me or the fans for this to continue. Something has got to give because there's no money to go and change things around quickly. We pay good money for Bath City but not for this league and sometimes we get found out.”
A Bath statement read: “Lee Howells has left Bath City Football Club this morning by mutual consent. The Bath City FC board would like to thank Lee for his dedication and hard work over the last eight years and wish him well for the future. A further announcement will made in due course.”
