Manager Simon Funnell has left East Grinstead by mutual consent.

Funnell took over in October 2011 and last season led the Wasps to second place in the Sussex County League – the best finish in the club’s history – and promotion to the Ryman League.

But Wasps are in the bottom three of Ryman south after difficult start to the campaign and the committee have decided a change is needed.

Chairman Richard Tramontin said: “The committee spoke at great length with Simon before reaching this decision which was extremely tough to make because Simon has been the most successful manager in our history and you won’t find anyone who works as hard as he does.

“But he recognises, like us, the importance of doing all we can to remain in the Ryman League and we feel a change of manager at this stage of the season will give us every opportunity to do that.”

Tony Beckingham, who was in charge between February 2010-October 2011, has agreed to return to the GAC Stadium to take over as manager on an interim basis.