Hednesford Town sack Gavin Hurren despite sitting joint-top of NPL Premier Division

Hednesford Town have sacked boss Gavin Hurren and assistant Lee Vaughan despite the Pitmen sitting joint-top of the Northern Premier League Premier Division.

The pair were appointed in November 2024 and wasted little time in turning Hednesford’s season around, overseeing a remarkable 21-game unbeaten run that lifted the Pitmen from mid-table obscurity into genuine promotion contention.

They fell narrowly short of the NPL West title last term, finishing three points behind Widnes, but ensured their names were etched into club folklore by delivering promotion via the play-offs.

And despite winning 15 league matches this season to keep Hednesford firmly in the hunt for back-to-back promotions, owner and chairman Craig Gwilt has opted to make a change in direction, pointing to a recent dip in form and performances that have not met the level of investment made into the club.

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Long-term future

He said in a club statement issued on Monday: “This has been one of the most difficult decisions I have had to make since taking ownership of this club.

“Gavin and Lee are not just colleagues; I consider them both good friends.

“I will never forget the memories we created last season. That 21-game unbeaten run and the subsequent promotion gave me my first true taste of success in football, and for that, I will be eternally grateful.

“They took a sleeping giant and truly woke it up.

“However, my responsibility as chairman is to the long-term future and progression of Hednesford Town.

“While we have sat high in the table for much of this season, our form and performances since November haven’t reflected the level of backing provided.

“To ensure we meet our ambitions for the remainder of the campaign, we feel a change in direction is now necessary.

“Gavin and Lee leave with their heads held high. They have written themselves into the history books here, and they will always be welcome back at Keys Park.”

Eyebrows raised

At such a crucial stage of the season, the decision has raised plenty of eyebrows – especially with Hednesford set to face title rivals Hebburn Town in a huge six-pointer at the top of the table tonight.

However, while the Pitmen have only lost once in their last 10 games, it’s a run that has produced just four wins, with a string of draws slowing their momentum.

The statement added: “The club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Gavin and Lee for their commitment, professionalism, and the memories they helped create during their time at Keys Park.

“Further updates regarding the first-team management structure will be communicated in due course.”

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