AFC Sudbury manager Gary Harvey and assistant Michael Cheethem will be leaving Kings Marsh Stadium at the end of the season.The news was announced after today's 3-1 Ridgeons League Premier Division victory over Kirkley.

AFC Sudbury manager Gary Harvey and assistant Michael Cheethem will be leaving Kings Marsh Stadium at the end of the season.

The news was announced after today's 3-1 Ridgeons League Premier Division victory over Kirkley.

During their three-year spell their achievements include back-to-back league titles as well as appearing in successive FA Vase finals. The board of directors have accepted both Gary and Michael's midweek resignations and will be looking to appoint a new manager in due course.

A spokesman on behalf of the AFC directors said: “Naturally we are disappointed at their decision because AFC Sudbury is losing two individuals who have represented this club with distinction.

“They have both expressed individual needs to take a break from the demanding responsibilities at this level of football and we appreciate they both require time to explore other interests outside football. As a club we respect their decisions and we wish them every success in the future; they will always be welcome at Kings Marsh Stadium.

“We thank them for their contribution. Their professionalism, commitment and enthusiasm has inspired many and they have maintained high levels of success on the pitch. In the club's relatively short history we will look back at their tenure with great affection, with many incredible performances, memorable results and an entertaining style of play that has made following AFC Sudbury so rewarding for the supporters.

“We ask all the players and fans to get behind them during the remaining games of this season and hopefully provide them with a third successive league title, this would be a fitting send off.”

Gary Harvey added: “Michael and I were a team and we have thoroughly enjoyed working with so many great people, on and off the field. We would like to thank the directors of AFC Sudbury for their incredible support and the fans who have followed their team all over England; on many occasions you were our 12th man!

“This has been the hardest decision I've ever made in Football and one that I had been thinking about for sometime. I have spent 30 years in local football and the last three seasons at AFC have been exceptional - but very demanding personally. My family and business interests will require more of my time from next season and it is not an option to manage this club and not be able to give the 100% commitment this position deserves. After a short break from football, I will continue in my role as a director of AFC and I look forward to being involved in their future success from behind the dugout.”