PHYSIO Dave Rushbury and coach Martin Foster have taken interim charge of Matlock Town following the departure of manager Mark Atkins.
Atkins quit the Evo-Stik NPL Premier club after Saturday's 4-0 home defeat to fellow strugglers Halesowen Town, ending his six year reign at the Autoworld Arena.
That defeat left the Gladiators second from bottom and Atkins said: “Results haven't been good enough and I think it's best for the club and myself that I resign and leave the club.
“I've really enjoyed my time here, it's been my first managerial position, I've tried my hardest but it's not a nice feeling getting beat regularly and I feel I now need a fresh challenge.
“Once the injuries clear up I'm sure these lads are capable of finishing mid-table at least, they'll get out of trouble, they probably just need a fresh voice to guide them.”
Chairman Tom Wright added: “I personally and a lot of the other club officials had a great relationship with Mark and it's very sad the way things have turned out.
“He always worked tirelessly for the club and was Matlock Town through and through. He was also a great ambassador for the club.
“Unfortunately these things happen in football but we separate on excellent terms, and we wish him all the very best wherever he goes. He knows he is welcome to come back and see us at Matlock anytime.”
Former Chesterfield and Alfreton Town boss Rushbury and Foster, who is still registered as a player, have taken charge while the club search for a new boss.
