GRAYS Athletic have announced that manager Paul Joynes will not be continuing in his role next season - but he will be joining the Isthmian North club's board.

The Blues narrowly missed out on a play-off place as their season petered out with a number of disappointing results and that has prompted Joynes to say he will be retiring from football management. But he will still be involved with Grays, with the club saying he will be co-opted onto the board at the end of this current season.

Joynes, who took over at Grays in the early part of this season following the decision by manager Jim Cooper to stand down, said: "I had retired from football after my enjoyable spell as manager of Waltham Abbey, however the opportunity to work with Jim at my local club was one I really wanted to pursue and I have never regretted that decision.

"Obviously, I did not envisage taking over as first team manager early this season and I have to say that I have immensely enjoyed being at the helm during this exciting campaign.

"I would like to thank my coaching staff, the players, club officials/volunteers and the fans for all of the support I have had this year. Additionally, I would like to express my appreciation to all of the clubs that I have served over the years and the many friends I have made within the game over the years.

"I have had some great times with some really good players, managers and chairmen and enjoyed a number of successful cup and league campaigns. Finally and most importantly I would like to thank my wonderful wife Amanda and all of my family that have been so supportive in allowing me to travel all over the country with teams and have put up with me when results have gone badly! I am looking forward to spending more quality time with them in the years to come.

"I am absolutely delighted to accept the offer of a co-opted position on the board for season 2022/23. It is an honour for me and I will be looking to bring my energy and experience to the group and add value where I can".

Grays chairman Steve Skinner added: "I would like to thank Paul for all of the time and effort he has invested in the club over the past three years. He has done a magnificent job in taking the first team forward this season and ensuring the achievement of the club's best league position since we returned to the Isthmian North Division.

"Paul's football experience will be invaluable to the board and since he joined the club he has been instrumental in bringing in some excellent sponsors and I know he wishes to expand the number of companies that support The Blues. The board are extremely pleased that Paul has accepted our offer and extend a warm welcome to him."

Grays have said that they expect to make an appointment to the manager's position in the close season from within ther existing coaching staff at the club and they will not be inviting applications for the role.