Herne Bay Football Club have announced that they have parted company with manager Steve Lovell after a difficult start to the season.

Bay lost 2-0 at Sussex side Lancing on the weekend and that has turned out to be the last game in charge for the former Gills boss.

After an 18 month stint with the Kent club, Herne Bay have decided to go in a different direction.

A statement released by the club reads:

“It is with great sadness that the Club announces that we have parted ways with first-team manager Steve Lovell, assistant manager Mark Lovell and physio Dave Hocking.”

“Steve came to the club during a tumultuous time and literally had to build a team from scratch.”

“Last season’s 8th place finish, the excellent win against Hendon and running Maidstone United so close in this years FA Cup are just a few of his highlights.”

“We would sincerely like to place on record a huge thanks to Steve, Mark and Dave for their contribution both on and off the pitch over the past 18 months and they will be truly missed around the club.”

“The Club will advertise for a First Team Manager over the coming days.”

Lovell leaves Bay sitting 17th in the Isthmian League South East having won just 7 of their 24 games this season.