Gregor Dougall insists his surprise departure from Ashford Rugby Club was very amicable.
The head coach ended his 18-month stay at Kinneys Field last month, but chairman John Norman only confirmed the news this week.

Dougall informed Mr Norman of his decision before the game against Beckenham last month, admitting: “I felt it was the right time to step down, but wanted to go quietly without a big hoo-ha being made about it.”

He wouldn’t elaborate on the reasons why, only to say: “I wanted to do things one way and the committee wanted to do it another. It’s their club and I understand that.

“I enjoyed my time there, it is a great club with so much potential and I wish them well. Sometimes in life goodbyes are for the right reason.”

Dougall guided the club to promotion to London South East 2 for the first time in their history last season, finishing runners-up behind this weekend’s opponents Thanet Wanderers.
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Mr Norman said: “It was Gregor’s decision, and he wasn’t pushed.

“He spoke to me saying it might be a good time to go, and yes it was a surprise. I don’t know what would have happened at the end of the season, but it was all very amicable on both sides.”

Former player Lloyd Stokes has taken over the coaching role for the rest of the season.

FULL STORY IN THIS WEEK'S KENTISH EXPRESS