Robin Falcus has stood down as the manager of Northern League Whickham after eight years at the helm.
Assistant manager Andrew Bulford and first team coach Jordan Moore also left the Tyne and Wear club on Thursday with the Lang Jacks sitting in 16th in the Northern League Division One.
Falcus told supporters his decision was taken with a “heavy heart” in a club statement announcing his departure from the Glebe Sports Ground.
The veteran boss said: “It's with a heavy heart that I've decided to resign as Whickham FC manager. I've been involved with the club for more than 26 years. First, as a player, then assistant manager, and the last eight years as manager.
“I was full of optimism in the summer about our prospects this season, but sadly that hasn't happened and performances lately, under my management, have been poor to say the least. As leader of the group, I have to take full responsibility for this and I feel a new face with fresh ideas will turn the team's fortunes around.
“The players are more than capable of winning games and being successful; I genuinely wish every one of them all the best. They are a great group, very talented and the dressing room was a pleasure to be around, but they need a lift.
Memories
“To the players that played for me over the years, I'd like to thank them all for their commitment to myself and the club. I've got some unbelievable memories of what we achieved and it's great that the club is in Northern League Division One.
“I know I've left the club in a better state than when I took over as manager, but I can't let the prospect of relegation threaten what has been built. The club's committee is small, but fantastic and I beg for the community to get involved and help with the running of the club in anyway possible as we are really short on that side.
Thanks
He added: “I'd like to thank Paul Taylor for his help and Neil Wilson for his unwavering support over the last two years and his financial commitment to the club.
“Lastly, I'd to thank Brian McCartney for his support over the years I've been involved at Whickham. We've had an unbelievable relationship and his support has been fantastic. Whickham is my club and I'll do anything I can do help it progress in whatever way I can help.”
Tribute
Whickhams' director of football Neil Wilson also paid tribute to Falcus in the club statement.
“The management team at Whickham FC have lived and breathed this football club. They have been very, very loyal, especially Robin Falcus, who has been at the club for 26 years.
“Results haven't gone our way this season and expectations at the start of the season were high. Robin walks away with his head held high and the club are in a much better position now than when he joined.
“Everyone at the club would like to thank Robin for his hard work, commitment and service to the football club.”
Image courtesy of whickhamfc.com
