Chatham Town director of football Carl Laraman has resigned just days after helping the club win promotion.

Laraman, who joined Chats in 2019, announced his departure in an open letter, saying it was "the right time for myself to step away".

That will come as a surprise to supporters who on Saturday saw their side clinch promotion to Isthmian South East with a 10-1 thrashing of Erith & Belvedere.

Laraman had been running the team alongside chairman Kevin Hake after Scott Lindsey joined Swindon just before the start of the season.

He's been a huge influence at Maidstone Road, both on the first-team and the youth section, but he has decided to step away.

"Firstly I want to say congratulations to everyone involved at the club from players, staff, committee and volunteers, for the promotion we've all achieved," said Laraman. "What a journey.

"I now believe it's the right time for myself to step away from the club and I will be resigning with immediate effect.

"I'm proud the objective of promotion has been achieved, and I have every faith that Chatham Town will continue to thrive and move forwards.

"I am delighted to have played a part in what has been an incredible year for the club.

"We now have a thriving youth structure, a playing philosophy to be proud of and a winning first team.

"The support I've had from fans, players and staff has been terrific and I can't thank you all enough for that.

"To me, football is so much more than just a game.

"Football has been my life, and I am looking forward to the future and what my next challenge in the game will be.

"Chatham Town is in safe hands and I can move on with confidence that the club will continue to have every success.

"I wish Chatham Town all the best and will enjoy watching their next steps from afar.

"I cannot thank you all enough, it has truly been a pleasure."