LEDBURY Town Football Club have begun the hunt for a new manager following Paul Mann’s decision to stand down.

The 49-year-old, who replaced Phil Preedy last October, cited personal and work commitments for leaving after the New Street outfit finished 13th in a tough West Midlands League Division One campaign.

He said: “My personal situation and work commitments mean that I won’t be able to commit for next season.

“I think the club needs a fresh change and a team to shake things up.

“I will still support the club in terms of fundraising and if the new manager needs any help or advice, then I will be more than happy to help.”

Mann, who admitted his side underachieved, added: “I didn’t start the season with the team and picked up the reins from someone else, which is always difficult.

“I did struggle to implement my ideas at times. But everyone has a shelf life.

“I’m 50 this year and people change, as well as techniques and the way you manage.

“Maybe some of the younger guys didn’t respond to my old-fashioned style.

“We had a couple of hidings last season, but played extremely well when we had a strong side.

“We could have been a comfortable top-six team but lost games we should have won.

“Ledbury need to learn their lessons and step up to the plate next season.”

Karl Lancett has also stepped down as reserve team boss after leading them to a third-placed finish in Herefordshire League Division One.

Ledbury are looking to have both new managers in place ahead of pre-season and set a deadline for applications of Saturday, May 31.

Anyone interested in either position can contact the club on 01531-631463 or write to Ledbury Town Football Club, New Street, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 2EL.

The deadline is also the same day as the club’s presentation evening, while their annual meeting is on Sunday, June 8, at 7.30pm.

Meanwhile, the club will hold a family fun day on Sunday, June 29, with all entry fees, proceeds and donations going to Help Harry Help Others.

The charity was set up to raise funds to help support young cancer victims after eight-year-old Harry Moseley lost his battle with the illness in October 2011.

The day will include a car boot sale, charity football match, stalls, bouncy castle, face painting and raffles followed by a disco.