Matt Smith has called for unity after announcing his decision to step down as Sheppey United chairman for personal reasons.

Mr Smith has handed the reins over to his father Vic Smith and commercial director Paul Rogers “for the foreseeable future” as his focus is currently on his fiancé, who has been ill.

Sheppey were beaten at the weekend by Beckenham, a defeat that followed 1-0 losses at Cobham in the FA Cup and Lordswood in the Southern Counties East, Premier Division.

Ahead of the game against Deal yesterday (Tuesday), Mr Smith said: “I know I sound like a broken record but I will keep saying it either way, Rome was not built in a day and whilst our pre-season was a great success seeing us pick up some fantastic results, both Ernie (Batten, the manager) and myself have learned it’s when that first competitive ball is kicked in August is when it really matters.

“Unfortunately for Ernie and Nick (Davis, assistant manager) they have had to deal with holidays and injuries during the past two weeks which dogged us all last season and it appears to have carried into this season.

“I know this squad’s quality will shine through and push us up the league over the coming weeks.

“I would ask that as football supporters we all now unite behind the team because as one this football club will become an unstoppable force and great things will be achieved by everyone this coming season.”

Mr Smith described the decision to step down as chairman as “unbelievably hard” but hopes it is only a temporary measure.

He said: “Over the coming weeks and months my fiancé and family will need me.

“I know in my father (Vic Smith) and Paul Rogers the club is in very safe hands with these two running things off the pitch.

“I will be watching on from afar and know the squad Ernie has put together will compete in this difficult division but I do urge supporters to continue to speak to friends and family that have not been to The Havill Stadium – Holm Park and get them to give it a try so we can truly fulfil my personal ambition of a football club built for the community from the community.”