AFC Emley have parted company with manager Ian Banks by mutual consent bringing to an end his two years in charge of the club.

Banks was a popular figure as manager, having enjoyed a spell at the old Emley AFC club during the 1990's at the end of an illustrious playing career.

He and assistant Grant Crookes guided the club to eighth place in the NCEL First Division in his first term in charge of the club earning a reputation for playing attractive football and admiration from fellow clubs and supporters in the process.

He took the side to second in the table before Christmas and well placed for promotion, recording a "giant killing" victory in the Sheffield Cup over UniBond League Worksop Town on the way.

But, a slump in the New Year saw Emley win just three of their last sixteen league games to leave them in eighth spot once again.

Banks met with Emley Chairman Graham Roys at the end of the season and it was decided between them that it would be a suitable time to go their separate ways.

Banks stated: "My feeling is that the side needs a few new faces in now to take it forward and perhaps it is the right time to bring in a new manager with some fresh ideas.

"The fans have been fantastic, patient and supportive through my time at the club and I am sorry to be leaving them behind when the club has the potential to achieve success.

"I would also like to thank the players - they have been a great set of lads to work with, thanks too to my assistant Grant Crookes who has worked tirelessly throughout the last two years."

Roys, speaking on behalf of the club's committee commented: "We would like to thank Ian and Grant for all of their hard work at the club over the last two years.

"Unfortunately this has not achieved promotion to the Premier Division - a target that we both set for ourselves.

"We have seen some great football played over the last two years and some terrific results.

"Both will be held in high regard here at Emley as they have given their all to the club and they will always be welcome back at the Welfare Ground."

The search now begins for a replacement manager as Emley look to have a new boss in place in good time for the new season.

Candidates are asked to contact club secretary John Whitehead on 07850 957161 or johnrwhitehead@uwclub.net for further details about the post.