Eastbourne Borough are saddened to announce the departure of Assistant Manager Stuart Watkiss.

Stu was recruited by Adam Murray upon his arrival in January, and played a massive part on and off the pitch in the club’s success in avoiding the drop last season.

Having managed Murray as a player at Mansfield Town, the chemistry between the two has been evident for all to see ever since his arrival.

Watkiss returned to England after a spell as assistant manager in India with Jamshedpur under Head Coach Aidy Boothroyd, having previously had strong links with Grimsby Town – where he has had three separate spells as assistant manager and caretaker.

Murray paid tribute to his departing assistant, saying: “He’s been working away from home a long time now, and he’s finding it hard being away from his family so he’s made the decision that’s right for him, and I fully respect that.

“He’s been a rock for me in terms of what we’ve done. He’s been a massive part of what we’ve done here and creating the miracle of last season and I’m personally devastated he’s leaving.

“Stu is an unbelievable coach and more importantly an unbelievable man and I have no doubts he will have an amazing future in whatever he decides to do next.”

CEO Alan Williams added: “We’re disappointed he’s made the decision to move on but understand he wants to be closer to his family with the festive period approaching.

“He’s been a fantastic character to have around the club and he will be sorely missed by not just the players, but everyone on and off the pitch.

“As a football club, we need to move on quickly and we look forward to announcing his successor in the coming days.”