Title-winning manager Dave Panton has stepped down as manager of Moulton Harrox with immediate effect.
Panton, who steered Moulton to glory in the ChromaSport PDFL Premier Division last season, has resigned after just one season in charge.
The reason Harrox have given for the former Bourne Town Reserves chief’s exit is “work commitments”, with Nigel Steadman stepping in as caretaker manager.
Club stalwart Paul Crowson has also agreed to return as caretaker assistant manager as Moulton begin their search for a new boss just one week before their first competitive game of season.
Club secretary Stuart Manning said: “Unfortunately, Dave Panton has had to relinquish his position as Moulton Harrox first team manager because of work commitments.
“There is no other reason, there have been no fallouts, internal arguments or anything like that. It’s pure and simply work-related.
“As is the case with most people these days, work has to come first. Dave is no different.
“I do know that Dave didn’t want to quit and the timing is unfortunate with the new season almost upon us, but it couldn’t be helped.
“Nigel Steadman has agreed to step in as caretaker manager in what is a temporary appointment. Paul Crowson has also agreed to come back and assist him until a new manager is appointed.
“This is with immediate effect, with no long-term plans currently decided and no new manager in the picture yet.
“Obviously Dave’s legacy at Moulton is that he guided us to the league title and everyone at the club is very grateful for that.”
Panton will be remembered as being manager of one of the most successful Premier Division champions in recent years.
Under his charge they racked up 92 points thanks 30 wins from 34 games. Harrox only lost twice in the league all season – the first of those coming at the 30th time of asking – and they finished with a goal difference of 116.
His final game in charge was a 1-0 defeat to rivals Pinchbeck United in the final of the President Premier Shield.
Harrox’s first competitive game without Panton is the Jack Hogg Memorial Shield clash with Langtoft United at Yaxley on Friday, July 22 (7.30pm).
They may have to do without midfielder Billy King and striker Ian Bradbury too, with Whittlesey Athletic announcing that they’d signed the pair on Wednesday. However, skipper King is likely to be dual registered with Moulton and could yet stay on.
More to follow, with The Voice hopeful of speaking to Panton shortly.
