Division One side Lincoln Moorlands have announced that manager John Priestley has told the club that he has decided to step down.

Priestley, who has been in charge at Newark Road for the past four-and-a-half years, has kept them in the top six consistently during his spell, twice finishing fourth in the league.

He also won the County Cup and the Wilkinson Sword Trophy.

Several players recruited in his time at the club have gone on to play at a higher level, an issue which has undoubtedly been a factor in his resignation.

"When I came to the club in January 2002 the stated aim was UniBond football in three years.

"Whilst this was maybe a little ambitious, I set myself the target of achieving promotion from Division One in four years to give us an opportunity to move onwards from there up the non-league pyramid.

"I have done my very best with the resources available and I have enjoyed every moment of my time at the club and I am very grateful to the Chairman Graham Longhurst and Stuart Gordon for giving me my first opportunity in senior football management.

"I feel that I have recruited a strong squad at the Moorlands which should form a good basis for success in the future.

"Whilst I am sure the decision I have made is the right one I am sorry to leave such a great bunch of players who have been really loyal to me during my spell at the club.

"I am confident in my ability to work in football management at a high level and, with my experience and contacts with youth football and developing young players, I feel I have a lot to offer."

Club Secretary Graham Peck had nothing but praise for what Priestley had done and paid tribute to his efforts.

He said: "Whilst we are disappointed at John's decision we respect his views and, as always, he has gone about letting the Club know his intentions in a gentlemanly and respectful way.

"John has really made a difference at the Club and his professionalism is unrivalled.

"Added to that, John has the right values in football taking defeat gracefully and treating everyone within the game from supporters through to match officials and opponents with utmost respect.

"He has also kept his belief in the passing game of football rather than the long ball often employed at this level.

"John will certainly be missed at the Club and difficult to replace but now we have to move on and we will be to announce a new manager as soon as we can."