By Mark Carruthers
Shildon chairman David Dent is determined to build on the “legacy” left behind by outgoing manager Daniel Moore.
The Railwaymen announced the departure of Moore and assistant manager Mark Hudson less than 24 hours after their Northern Premier League East play-off semi-final defeat at Marske United.
The decision follows on from a number of recent discussions between Dent and Moore before the two parties agreed to part company at the end of the season.
Moore has enjoyed a fruitful first foray into management after helping the Dean Street club to the Cleator Cup, Durham Challenge Cup and promotion into the Northern Premier League‘s second tier for the first time in their history.
Their first season in step four of the Non-League pyramid has been something of a success with as they landed a play-off spot after ending the season in fifth place in the table.
Any thoughts of a second consecutive promotion were ended by Tuesday night’s extra-time defeat at Marske as Jason Kennedy’s extra-time goal helped the Seasiders see off a dogged Shildon side.
With Moore’s departure now confirmed as he sets his sights on his next move, Shildon chairman Dent has reflected on his relationship with his now-former manager.
“The relationship we had was more than the typical manager and chairman relationship,” he told the NLP.
“Dan took over in exceptional circumstance when I was in hospital and both me and my wife Diane will always be grateful for that.
“We had a number of discussions in recent weeks and it became clear we both felt we could not carry on and couldn’t extend his contract with the club.
“He wanted to take his career elsewhere and he’s left a legacy behind at Shildon.
“We have grown together, built together, and we have shared some very special moments.
“That won’t be forgotten.
“Now it’s about looking forward to the next chapter and what lies ahead but it’s down to our next manager to build on the legacy Dan has left at the club.”
There will be more from Shildon chairman David Dent in this weekend’s Non-League Paper.
