Michael Jolley steps down as Bury manager after two days following backlash

Bury have confirmed that Michael Jolley has left as first-team manager by mutual consent, just two days after his appointment.

The former Grimsby Town and Barrow AFC manager faced backlash over a 2009 incident. In that year, Jolley pleaded guilty to having sex with a 15-year-old girl.

He was sentenced to a year’s probation and placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for 12 months.

Jolley has consistently maintained that the girl did not disclose her true age to him. He says she told him she was 19.

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Impact

In a statement published on X, he said that subsequent investigations through the legal process, the UK government, and The Football Association established that he was “deceived, and at no time did I act maliciously”.

Meanwhile, Bury said the board recognised “the strength of feeling expressed in recent days by supporters, staff, partners and players” and the “very real impact” the decision to appoint Jolley had on those connected with the club.

The club added in its statement: “Our immediate priority is the welfare of our people and the stability of the Club and our community.

“We believe this step is necessary to help restore confidence, create space for reflection, and allow Bury FC to move forward in a way that reflects our values and responsibilities.

“Bury Football Club remains committed to acting with integrity, transparency and respect. Further updates will be shared when appropriate.”

Backlash

Assistant manager Tim Lees will remain in charge on an interim basis. The board said it will also undertake a wider review of club operations.

The Shakers appointed the 48-year-old on Friday. This followed the departure of Dave McNabb, who stepped down earlier this month to become head of football operations.

However, the appointment of Jolley has prompted backlash from supporters. They chanted for his removal during Saturday’s 2-1 win over Mossley at Gigg Lane.

Jolley said: “I do not wish my presence to deter the board from its mission of returning the club to its rightful place in the EFL.

“I would like to wish the board, the players, and the supporters, the very best for the future, and hope the club can continue its journey back to where it belongs.”

He added that his appointment had become “a distraction for the club” and confirmed he had decided to step aside.

READ MORE: Michael Jolley takes the reins from Dave McNabb at Bury FC