'What a ride it has been' - Nathan Haslam reflects on time as Whitby Town manager

The club yesterday announced that Haslam had left, following a disappointing start to the season which sees them 16th in the Northern Premier League.

The most recent blow was Saturday’s FA Trophy defeat at home to Newton Aycliffe.

But Haslam said he leaves with fantastic memories, particularly reaching the first round proper of the FA Cup last season for the first time in 20 years and winning the North Riding Senior Cup final at Middlesbrough’s Riversside Stadium.

He said: “I would like to thank everyone connected to Whitby Town Football Club for the support shown to me over the last four-and-a-half years.

"I would like to personally thank the Board of Directors, players past and present, staff and the volunteers for all of their hard work.

“To the fans, we’ve regrettably not hit the heights we all aspired to this season which has lead to the decision for me to leave, but I owe you a debt of gratitude for the way you welcomed me into your club and for the support you have shown me and your team.

“Whitby Town is a special club, a club I now hold close to my heart.

"This was my fifth season as manager, and what a ride it has been.

"There’s so many good memories, top of the list was that night at the Turnbull against Chelmsford City to get to the first round proper of the FA Cup and we had our day out at Bristol Rovers which I was the first time in 20 years we had reached that far in the competition, and not to forget that memorable night at the Riverside in the North Riding Senior Cup Final.

"Memories to last a lifetime.

“I’ve been addicted and obsessed to give everything I had to the role, it’s now time for a break.

"The plan is to reflect and come back better and wiser for such a challenging experience.”

Haslam has managed the Seasiders across 169 games, with 104 coming in solo charge.