RELEGATED Romsey Town will have a new manager in charge as they look to regroup in Sydenhams One next season.

The Bypass Ground club, who finished bottom of the Wessex Premier Division, have announced the departure of first-team co-managers Carl Bennett and John McFarlane.

Bennett – an enthusiastic club man – stepped up from the assistant manager’s role last October following Danny Barker’s departure. But, despite marking his first game in charge with a surprise Russell Cotes Cup win over Follands, he was unable to steer Town out of the drop zone.

Romsey showed signs of life in February when McFarlane went back to the Bypass Ground following his departure from Blackfield & Langley, but a return of just one point from their last seven league games ultimately meant there was no escaping the relegation trap door.

A statement released by the club yesterday said: “Romsey Town Football Club have today announced the departure of first team co-managers Carl Bennett and John McFarlane.

“The club wishes to place on record our thanks for the hard work shown in attempting to keep the first team in the Sydenhams Premier League this season.

“In particular the club wishes to acknowledge the role that Carl Bennett played within the whole club overall, especially following the resignation of Danny Barker in October 2013.

“Romsey Town FC wishes both men every success in their respective futures.”