Alex Nightingale steps down as manager of Swallownest FC

His decision follows a run of eight defeats from the last nine in the Northern Counties East League Division One.

Nightingale, who also served the club as a player, was made permanent manager in March 2021 after a spell as interim boss.

After that season was cut short by the pandemic, he got a proper run at the job last season.

Swallownest were seven points from safety in January before a strong turn-around in form ended relegation fears and they finished 18th.

This season a good run in October had Nightingale in the running for the Manager of the Month award before recent tail-off in results dropped them into the lower reaches.

Alex said: "I think it’s in the best interests of both the club and myself for someone new to come in and consolidate our position in the league.

"I would like to place on record my thanks to everyone associated with Swallownest FC for the opportunity to manage this special football club. It will always be close to my heart.”

Swallownest chairman Martin Morton said he fully understood the decision.

He added: "Alex has given 100 per cent to this role since day one. In taking this decision he has put the club first and this decision is testament to his character.

"We would like to place on record our heartfelt thanks for his hard work, commitment and dedication to the cause. We thank him and wish him well for his footballing future.”

Swallownest have a free weekend before ther next match at home to Beverley Town on Saturday, January 14.