Eccleshill United have announced the resignation of Steve Watson as first team manager.

He had been with the club for the past two seasons managing the academy team before taking up the first team post at the start of 2006/07 season.

He said: "I've enjoyed every minute of my time at Plumpton Park but felt this was the right time to step aside.

"The club's financial situation had hampered me all season and led to me losing a number of quality players that I was unable to replace.

"I love Eccleshill United and wish them all the very best success in the future.

"There are some people at the club who deserve the utmost respect for the jobs they have done and continue doing but by the same token some players need to look at themselves and ask if they really do have the club's best interests at heart."

Club secretary Paul Jarvis added: "Everyone at Eccleshill United wishes Steve all the best in his future endeavours.

"Steve was probably a victim of his own success, guiding the team to 4th in the division by Christmas which then drew attention to some of our players which we were unable to hold onto.

"Results after Christmas had become worrying though."

Assistant Manager Ray Price will take control of first team affairs for the final two league games at home to Armthorpe Welfare on Saturday and Retford United the following Saturday.

The club will be advertising for the first team manager's post and any interested parties should forward a CV to Paul Jarvis, club secretary, Eccleshill United FC, 67 Wrose Road, Swain House, Bradford. BD2 1LN.

Closing date for applications are Friday 11th May 2007.