GRAYS Athletic and manager Darren Manning have parted company. Also leaving the club is assistant manager Callum Bolger. 

Announcing the decision, reached by mutual consent, Grays issued this statement: "Darren joined the club in November 2023 and stabilised the club after a difficult start to that campaign under Mark Stimson and kept us in the division finishing 16th. 

"In Darren's second season as Manager, he steered us to a ninth place finish in which we ended the season with a 12 game unbeaten run, narrowly missing out on the playoffs by eight points. 

"Sadly, after a summer of squad rebuilding, the club have struggled for form and results this season and both Darren and the Board feels a change of direction is needed to safeguard the club's position in the Isthmian League North division. 

"During his tenure, Darren has shown an unwavering commitment and unrivalled passion for the club in which we thank him unreservedly for and wish him and Callum all the best in their future endeavours. 

"The club would like to assure supporters that the search for a new manager is underway and we ask that they continue to support the players as we work through this transition as we look to remain focused on moving the club forward.

"Further updates will be made in due course."