HYTHE & Dibden have a managerial/coaching vacancy to fill after Lee Burch’s departure from Clayfields.

Player-boss Burch was in his second full season in charge after leading the Watersiders to an all-time high of fourth in Sydenhams One last term.

Chairman Dave Cox said: “Lee came to us last Saturday and said he was going.

“He’s left for greener pastures and his coaches Dave (Rowland) and Jamie (Cotton) have gone with him.

“We wish Lee all the best in whatever he does in the future.”

The good news for Hythe is that Burch’s right-hand man and club secretary Scott Johnston is staying put.

“”We either need someone to coach while Scotty manages or we can have joint managers, I really don’t mind,” said Cox.

“Scott’s our secretary, but if he can’t do that while he’s managing, the job’s there for someone else.”

With all the turmoil of the move from Jones Lane to Clayfields, it’s been a tough old season for Hythe.

But, having finally caught up on their fixtures, they go into their last two games – home to promotion-chasing Tadley Calleva tomorrow (April 18) and home to Fleet Spurs next Saturday (April 25) – sitting a respectable seventh.

“This season’s been hard work, it really has,” said Cox. “But we’ve got the new fence going up round the ground next month and that’s the last bit.

“The facilities are superb, we’ve got the best floodlights in the Wessex League.

“We’re trying to get Fawley AFC down to play us in July and have a proper Waterside opening ceremony.

“For anyone coming in as manager, coach or secretary there’s a lot to look forward to.”

Anyone interested can call Cox on 07796 500531.