Halstead Town managed Shaun Bailey is to leave the club at the end of the season because of work commitments, it has been announced.

Bailey, who took over in October when Terry Benson was sacked, works for gas company Transco and changing shift patterns have made it difficult for him to concentrate on his job as manager.

Bailey has done a good job since taking over, taking Halstead out of the relegation places in the Jewson League premier division.

Chairman Mick Coe said: "We are very pleased with the job that Shaun has done, he has really given it 110 per cent.

"It's a real shame - he is very popular with the crowd and the players."

Meanwhile Bailey said he would not be looking for another club at this level.

He said: "It's disappointing because I wanted to keep the team up this season and next year to really get the ball rolling. It's just come at the wrong time.

"I wanted it to be a long term appointment but it just hasn't worked out like that.

"I just hope that the players understand - when I do something I want to do it 100 per cent and I'm not going to be able to do that.

"I've just got to be honest with myself and with Halstead Town - it gives them the rest of the season and the summer to find someone else."

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