RONNIE JEPSON has quit as manager of Gillingham after a poor start to the season.

The Gills suffered their fifth defeat of the campaign at Southend on Saturday and are languishing in the bottom three of Coca-Cola League 1.

Jepson offered his resignation to chairman Paul Scally on Sunday morning.

Jepson said on Monday: "It’s disappointing when you part company with people. You can go away bitter and twisted but I would like to thank the chairman for giving me the opportunity for managing a club of this stature."

The 44-year-old took charge after the departure of Neale Cooper in November 2005.

See our Gills section for the full interview with Ronnie Jepson and in-depth reaction to his departure >>>