Thorogood leaves role as Spalding United manager after nearly a year in charge

Spalding United are looking for a new manager after Lewis Thorogood’s surprise resignation on Monday morning.

The Tulips chief has opted to leave his role after nearly a year in charge and 13 months as assistant boss to Matt Easton beforehand.

After winning their first two Pitching In NPL South East Division games of the season, Saturday’s 3-1 home defeat to Chasetown – which made it three losses in a row – proved to be his final game.

Thorogood, posting on Twitter, said: “After a whirlwind 11 months in charge and previous to that 13 months as assistant manager I have decided to step aside from the first team management position.

“From helping keep the club alive and the team in this league through to developing the side and progressing it in a short space of time from where it originally was, it’s now time to pass the baton to somebody else to take the team to the next level.

“May I thank all the players and the staff who have worked with me and the fantastic supporters of this club.”

Spalding visit Cleethorpes Town on Tuesday night (7.45pm) and it’s currently unclear who will be in charge.

Tulips chief executive Leigh Porter said that Thorogood’s exit followed “an honest and open discussion” after Saturday’s loss.

Porter said: “Lewis was appointed manager last season in very difficult circumstances and his efforts at the time were huge, he was part of a group of people that kept the club afloat and we will never forget that.

“Following Saturday’s game I had an honest and open conversation with Lewis, who has decided to step aside from the position as first team manager.

“The search for his replacement will begin immediately and Lewis will now focus on a new role.”

Spalding United are inviting applications for the first team management position via email at spaldingunitedfc@yahoo.com or via telephone at 07921 699072.