Smith and Walsham part ways

With their 2018/19 Thurlow Nunn League Premier Division campaign getting under way a week today, Walsham-le-Willows have announced that long-serving Paul Smith has agreed to step down as manager.

The former Sudbury Town striker first took charge in 1998/99 and subsequently guided the club to promotion to the Eastern Counties League five seasons later.

However, there has now been a parting of the ways at Summer Road.

A Walsham statement read: "The club would like to put on record our thanks and appreciation for Paul's remarkable efforts in taking us on the journey from the Suffolk and Ipswich league to the Thurlow Nunn Premier League, the Senior Cup triumph, league titles and marvellous times along the way.

"His contribution has been immense and he will always be welcome at Walsham Sports Club.

"He is a true football man, outstanding individual and someone who has had an outstanding career as a player and manager.

"We wish Paul every success in the future and once again thank him for his contribution to our club."

The club have also confirmed that former player Trevor Newman has agreed to step up and fill the void left by Smith.

* For more on Smith's departure and the appointment of Newman, see this week's Free Press and Express print editions.