Hinckley AFC can announce that John Ramshaw will step down as manager at the end of the current season in a mutual agreement between John and the club.
John took over in difficult circumstances in December following the departure of James Jepson, to get the club through to the end of the season.
But both John and the Board accept that the season has not gone anywhere close to plan on the pitch, and the quality of football our fan base expect.
That said, the club created an under 18s side two years ago with the aim of a clear pathway of progression from that team into the first team squad and we have seen John plant the seeds of progress with a number of those under 18s breaking through.
Director Dave Jackson said: “To be frank, there’s no denying we were in a big mess in December and we wanted some kind of stability.
“John gave us that stability having been assistant to the departing manager and already knowing the players we had at the time. Results up to that point had not been anywhere near good enough, and as such a top four finish was very unrealistic.
“When John came in we asked him to steady the club and to bring through our youngsters, which he has done.
“Accepting that, with an inexperienced side the results in the last few months have not been great, and I know John is just as frustrated with that as the board and fans are.
“As Treasurer of the club, I’d like to personally thank John for tirelessly working within the constraints I have placed on him.”
After announcing his decision, Ramshaw said: “I am disappointed that I have not been able to bring the success to the Club that our superb supporters, and I include the Board of Directors in that category, deserve.
“Recruitment of local players has been influenced by my lack of familiarity with this level of football and this has been reflected in recent results.
“Throughout my tenure the fans and Directors have been unwaiving in their support for me personally and I thank them sincerely for that. I am proud of the number of Youth Team players who have become established first team players in the past three months and my thanks go to all of the playing staff for their efforts over the course of the season.
“This is a super club to be involved with and whoever is fortunate enough to be appointed as my successor will be a very fortunate person.
“Finally, I would like to acknowledge the assistance and support I have received from Dave Gunn this season. He has taken on many mantles – director, assistant manager, physio, kit man, the list is endless. But most importantly he has been an absolute rock for me throughout this difficult period.”
The Board of Directors are now inviting applications for First Team Manager to take over at the end of the season. Any prospective candidates can send their CV to the Chairman, Bryan White, by emailing: chairman@hinckleyafc.co.uk
