Chatham Town are seeking a new manager less than two weeks before the start of the new league season.

The Southern Counties East Premier Division side say Scott Lindsey has left for an opportunity to work in the Football League.

He's since been confirmed as part of new Swindon boss Ben Garner's coaching team, a club where he's previously worked.

Chairman Kevin Hake announced the news, saying that “with a heavy heart I can confirm the departure of Scott Lindsey as first team manager of Chatham Town with immediate effect.”

Lindsey has assembled a quality side for SCEFL level and are expected to be challenging for the title this season after a frustrating last two years where the league season has failed to be completed.

Captain Jack Evans said Lindsey was now "back where he belongs after a very tough few years." The midfielder has been a key man at the Chats under the departing boss and added: "On behalf of me and the boys I'd like to thank the gaffer for everything.

"He made me fall back in love with football and we were lucky to have him in the first place. Gutted but it's only right."

Lindsey suffered the heartache of losing his wife Hayley to cancer during his time as Chatham boss but continued in the role, saying at the time: "It took my mind away from things, even if it was only for 90 minutes, and I could get my teeth into something else - football is great for that."

He had joined Chats as manager in October 2019, having prior to that been assistant manager for three years at Forest Green Rovers. He also had coaching roles at Swindon and Lincoln City. During his playing career he had a short spell with Gillingham. His arrival at the time followed the departure of James Collins.

Mr Hake - a former manager of Sheppey United - will take charge in the interim alongside director of football Carl Laraman.

The chairman had only great things to say about his departing manager, writing: “Scott has been brilliant at the club since he joined and leaves us in a lot stronger position than when he came.

“I think it says a lot about the club and him as a person that he was offered other non league jobs but turned them down, but the chance to work back in the Football League was one had had to take.

“I would personally like to wish Scott all the best in the future and he will always receive a good welcome back at the Chats.”