COLIN Hopkins quit as manager of mid-table Downton over the weekend with three Sydenhams One games left to play.

The former goalkeeper had almost completed his second season in charge at Wick Lane.

Coach Mitch Blake also parted company with the Robins – a month after Colin Stainer had stood down as chairman.

Hopkins took over at the Downton helm from Jeff Softley following relegation from the Sydenhams Premier in 2014.

He was initially assisted by Jack Brooks before central defender Ben Smith took over as his right-hand man.

And it is 39-year-old Smith, 15 years a Robin, who has taken temporary charge for the tail end of the campaign.

He sat in the hot seat for the first time away at United Services Portsmouth last night where Downton earned a goalless draw.

The Wiltshire club are due to host East Cowes Vics on Saturday before ending the season at Fleet Spurs on Friday week (April 29).

Smith, Downton's top scorer with 11 goals, said: “I will happily take charge of the club until the end of the season. Nothing fazes me.

“They (Hopkins and Blake) remain close friends of mine and I would really like to thank them on a personal level and from all the players at Downton. They are two top blokes.”

Rae Hughes, former secretary of Salisbury City and now first-team physio at National League South outfit Gosport Borough, will succeed Hopkins as first-team manager next season.

“I really look forward to welcoming Rae Hughes and to assisting him next year. I will continue to be player/assistant manager,” confirmed Smith.

“We are looking to retain the services of Mike Easterbrook as goalkeeping coach as well as all the current players.

“We are also looking for new sponsors if anyone is interested.”