Eastbourne Borough can announce that the club have parted company with First Team Manager Mark Beard.

Beard arrived at Priory Lane in the summer as the club made the exciting transition into full-time football.

However, after a start of just six wins from their first 26 National League South fixtures, the Sports have chosen now is the time for change.

“Mark has worked so hard to build a new team,” said Chairman Simon Leslie.

“However, he has been hampered by numerous injuries to many of the key signings and despite some superb performances, many of the results have not gone our way.

“With the team now five points away from safety in the relegation zone, it is with a heavy heart that I feel it is time for a change in direction.

“I want to thank Mark for everything he has done at Eastbourne Borough and I am personally disappointed that we are making this change.”

Mark leaves the Sussex coast having made some great memories with the club this season – from that opening day win against Hampton & Richmond, to coming from 2-0 down to win at St. Albans City in September.

Leslie added: “To me this is abject failure. When we appointed Mark, we knew this was a tough project – and it got tougher week by week.

“With the confidence in the group very low, I feel we have no choice but to make a change.

“I am grateful to Mark for being part of this story and he will always be the first manager I appointed in football.”

On behalf of everyone at Eastbourne Borough, we want to thank Mark for his commitment to the club and unquestionable hard work. He has been instrumental in developing many of the young players and we will no doubt see some of them go to play at higher levels.

The club will make an announce regarding a new manager in due course.