SHRIVENHAM football club have begun the search for a new development side manager after former boss Steve Hendry confirmed he is stepping down from the role with immediate effect.

Shrivvy’s development side finished their Hellenic League Two West campaign in 10th, winning just six of their 24 league games, and are now on the hunt for a new management team ahead of next season.

Former boss Hendry had started the search for his replacement himself, but with little interest forming, he has allowed the club to continue the task.

Hendry steps down following 103 games in charge of the club’s second-string side – a period that he believes has seen the side go from strength to strength.

“When I took over the side, I brought about a change in philosophy,” he said.

“From how we prepared for and how we performed in games, while improvement in successive seasons has been the aim.

“As the statistics show – we’ve achieved that, and turned the Shrivenham development side in to one that gives players a fantastic opportunity to come in and not only progress their own ability, but to push on at the senior level of the game at a high standard of football.”

Hendry placed on record his thanks to chairman Matt Hirst and first-team manager Gareth Davies for their support and is looking forward to more success at Shrivenham, throughout the club.

He said: “It’s been fantastic working with the club and all the players over the years, they’ve been a credit to the success the club have had and a pleasure to coach.

“I’d like to add a massive thank you to Matt (Hirst) and Gareth (Davies) for the opportunity they gave me along with all of their support.

“The backroom staff from coaches to committee members and of course, all of the players have been great.

“I believe that last season’s success is just the start of many exciting times to be had at Shrivenham football club.”

Meanwhile, chairman Matt Hirst said: “We’re really disappointed to be losing Slicker (Steve Hendry) from the club – he’s bought in to what we’re aiming to do one-hundred percent since I took over two years ago.

“He’s improved our development side immensely and has been a hugely popular figure at the club, so we hope to see him return in the future once his circumstances allow.

“I can’t thank him enough for everything he has done for the club.”