Tony Dolby has stepped down as the manager of Hastings United.
He has reluctantly turned down an offer from chairman Dave Walters to continue next season after guiding them to Ryman League premier division survival.
The former Tonbridge Angels boss, who guided the side to nine wins from his 17 games in charge, said: "It was a very difficult decision. The lads have been fantastic to work with and it is definitely with a heavy heart that I leave but I feel it is the right decision."
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Dolby, who is based in Chiselhurst, added: "There are a few things but what swung it is the location and travelling. It is very difficult getting to Hastings three times a week especially with work.
"I do not think I would be able to do the job properly, especially in pre-season.
"I thought it would be best to tell Dave now and give him the best opportunity to find the right man to be the next manager.
"The lads I have spoken to appreciate what I have done and feel that they are better players for having me as a manager, albeit for a short time.
"The job I was given has been achieved and I didn't look beyond that.
"I have nothing set up, I have spoken to Dave and confirmed my decision and I am jobless."
Walters said: "I have done my best and we have tried to make it work but the main problem is the travelling.
"It not about money for Tony or the budget for next season, which I am sure people will speculate about. It is just the travelling and a couple of other personal things for Tony.
"The budget was increased this season and was set to be increased next season, although in the current climate I do not know if that will be the case. Unless you have money to burn, I am not sure if that is the wisest thing to do at present.
"Tony has done a great job, the players like him and respect him and from my point of view that is exactly what we are looking for.
"It's disappointing but understandable and we thank Tony and Mike Rutherford (assistant) for what they have done. They did exactly what we asked them to and now we wish them all the best."
Walters will not be rushed into appointing a quick successor.
He said: "I shall wait and see what happens first of all as the grapevine usually does part of the job. But I realise I need to get things sorted sooner rather than later."
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