TOMMY WIDDRINGTON has left National League South side Eastbourne Borough by mutual consent after five years in charge.
The former Salisbury City and Hemel Hempstead boss replaced long-serving manager Garry Wilson in February 2012 after Eastbourne had been relegated from Non-League's top flight.
Widdrington led the club to safety in the Conference South that season and avoided back-to-back relegations before going on to consolidate the club at Step 2.
The Sports finished a disappointing 17th last season in the increasingly competitive National League South but they have enjoyed a much better camoaign this time around and currently sit 11th in the table.
However, despite the upturn in fortunes, the former Southampton, Grimsby, Port Vale, Hartlepool and Macclesfield midfielder has left Priory Lane with coach Hugo Langton taking charge of the final five games.
Widdrington told the club's website: “It has been an honour and a privilege to have worked as the ‘gaffa' at Eastbourne Borough FC over the last five years.
“Firstly under Len Smith whom I'm ever grateful to, for giving me the opportunity to manage the Boro. At the time he, Mick Grimer and Mike Spooner, who has been a particularly helpful on all levels, were the trilogy under which I worked and more recently John Bonar, Lee Peskett and Paul Maynard have continued the progress of the club both on and off the field of play.
“Like in any business some relationships haven't always run smoothly but I can honestly say that those with the primary interest of improving the fortunes of the club before themselves, at any level, will certainly remain on my Christmas card list.
“To each and every player that wears the Borough badge I thank you for your efforts fellas and hope you fulfil your individual and collective ambitions.
“The club has made great strides and I genuinely hope will continue to do so and I sincerely wish everyone associated with EBFC all the very best for the future.”
Chairman John Bonar added: ” “It has been a pleasure to work with Tommy over the past few years. He has always been the consummate professional amidst some big changes in the background of the football club.
“He can leave the club with his head held high after not just helping to stabilise the club but also delivering some memorable cup wins and of course the silverware of the Sussex Senior Cup.”
