Pic: Matt Bradshaw
MARK HAWKES has stepped down as manager of National League South side Chelmsford City after just over two years in the job.
Hawkes left Ryman North side Heybridge Swifts to take over as manager of Chelmsford in November 2013, replacing Dean Holdsworth at Melbourne Park.
He led the Clarets to safety in the Conference South in 2013-14 before a comfortable tenth place finish last season.
However, this term has been an inconsistent one for Hawkes' side and he has left by mutual consent after Tuesday night's defeat to league rivals Concord Rangers in the Essex Senior Cup.
The Clarets are without a win in eight games and sit in 15th – just five points clear of the relegation places.
Kevin Maher has been placed in interim charge of the side and will oversee Saturday's National League South game against Whitehawk.
Chelmsford chairman Trevor Smith said: “I'd like to thank Mark for his excellent efforts over the course of his tenure and for saving the club from relegation. He made a positive impact on the club and provided us with stability, although results have been hard to come by this season.
“Mark has therefore agreed to step down after Tuesday night's Essex Senior Cup defeat at Concord Rangers, with Kevin Maher taking interim charge for Saturday's home match with Whitehawk and until we make another appointment.”
