SIMON COLBRAN has confirmed he will leave Peacehaven & Telscombe at the end of the season following a tough season for the club.
Colbran became manager of the Magpies in October after accepting the offer from chairman Brian Suckling, replacing Darren Freeman who had opted to join Ryman Premier side Lewes.
The club have struggled off the pitch and were rocked in early January by the news that Suckling had passed away following a battle with cancer.
Despite seeing his modest budget cut further, Colbran stayed with the Magpies although he couldn’t save the club from Ryman South relegation.
The former Chipstead, Redhill, Worthing and Horsham boss will leave the club after the final two league games against Three Bridges and Carshalton Athletic and says a local manager is needed.
“When Brian Suckling asked me to take up the role it came with the message to stick it out and make sure we get a team out on the pitch every week,” Colbran said.
“I’ve stuck to my word. I’ve made some good friends at this at this club and I’ve stuck to my promise to Brian.
“Everyone at the club has worked hard this season just to ensure the club survived. Maybe we didn’t achieve on the pitch, but possibly the achievement was just getting through the season.
“I think the club going down the community route is a great idea. This is now the time to steady the ship and regroup. It is also important to get a local manager in place who can bring in and work with local players.”
Acting chair Sue Norwood added: “Everyone at the club likes and admires Simon and wishes him well for the future. He is a battler and his courage shone through. He will always be welcome at our club.”
