Liddle quits Whitby Town to take on Hartlepool United assistant boss role

First Team Manager Gary Liddle has left Whitby Town Football Club, bringing an end to a 15-month spell in charge.

The club announced that Liddle has left the Towbar Express following an approach from Hartlepool United, who have appointed him as Assistant Manager alongside Nicky Featherstone at the National League side.

Blues boss Gary Liddle.    Photo by Paul Connollyplaceholder image
Blues boss Gary Liddle. Photo by Paul Connolly

His exit comes after 60 matches at the helm of the Seasiders.

In a statement, Whitby Town’s Board of Directors placed on record their "sincere thanks" to Liddle for his service, praising the professionalism and integrity he brought to the role.

Gary Liddle has quit Whitby Town to take on Hartlepool United assistant boss role. Photo by Brian Murfieldplaceholder image
Gary Liddle has quit Whitby Town to take on Hartlepool United assistant boss role. Photo by Brian Murfield

The Board highlighted his influence not only on the playing squad but also on the wider culture of the club, adding that he leaves with their best wishes as he embarks on the next chapter of his career.

Liddle’s final game in charge was a goalless draw away at Hednesford Town, a fittingly gritty conclusion to a tenure often defined by hard work and determination.

Speaking after his exit, the departing manager described his time at Whitby as an "unbelievable experience".

"I’ll look back on the last 17 or 18 months when I've been at the club, firstly as a player, as an unbelievable experience," Liddle said. "I was sort of thrown into management - which I was eager to do - at what I already knew was a great football club.

"As with every club at this level, there’s been a lot of ups and downs."

He was particularly keen to acknowledge the people behind the scenes who helped him along the way, from coaching staff to volunteers, as well as the supporters who backed the team through challenging periods.

"I’ve met some unbelievable people along the way and I’m very thankful for the help I’ve had off those people, and the support of the fans over that time," he said.

"I’ve been very lucky to have great staff - both paid and voluntary - who have given a lot."

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