Andy Leese departs Chesham United with club seeking “new opportunities”

CHESHAM UNITED chairman Brian McCarthy says long-serving boss Andy Leese has departed as both parties need ‘new opportunities”.

Leese’s 11-year reign as Generals boss is over following a Chesham board meeting on Thursday evening.

The former Somersett Ambury, Cheshunt, Boreham Wood and Wealdstone boss joined Chesham from Potters Bar Town in the summer of 2007.

Promotion to Step 3 was achieved the season after following a 4-0 victory over Slough Town in the play-off final and Chesham have been fighting for a Step 2 place since.

They have made the Southern Premier play-offs three times, including the final in 2013-14, as well as the second round of the FA Cup last season after they beat Bristol Rovers.

The Generals are seventh in the Southern Premier table this term and ten points adrift of the top five with seven games remaining.

Assistant boss Jon Meakes will take charge of the team for the rest of the campaign while Chesham search for Leese’s successor.

Chairman McCarthy said: “After 11 seasons, as we begin to think about next season and beyond, it was felt that both the football club and Andy needed new opportunities, and new challenges.

“The board wishes to express sincere thanks for all Andy’s hard work, passion and dedication over 11 seasons and wish him success in the future.

“Andy will always be welcomed at the club, has made many friends over the years, and I hope we see him at The Meadow in the near future.”