ASHFORD TOWN Football Club manager Tim Thorogood is stepping aside after just three games of the new Ryman League season to become the club’s Director of Football.

Thorogood, who also owns the franchise for the club, will also continue as the club chairman and take a greater role in the new youth development programme.

The news was announced following the disappointing 2-1 home defeat to Burgess Hill. But Thorogood said it was not a sudden decision to give up his role as manager of the club.

“I have been considering it for a while,” he said. “The club was taking over my life. There are several reasons I have decided to step down but among them I need to concentrate on my business and reclaim my own life.”

“I am not running away from the club or leaving just taking on a new role which I hope will help take the club onwards.”

His assistant and long time Town stalwart Tony Reynolds will take over the reins as club manager while an assistant will be sought to help him run the side.

FULL STORY IN THIS WEEK'S KENTISH EXPRESS