The board are going backwards rather than moving forward, claims Scott Porter

SCOTT PORTER claims his former employers lacked the same enthusiasm and belief that he showed for the club.

Porter resigned as Hythe Town’s manager late on Tuesday night following a disagreement with the board over the club’s playing budget next season.

It brought an end to a successful five-year reign at Reachfields Stadium for Porter, who wore his heart on his sleeve during his time in charge of the club.

Porter finished the season just gone in eighth-place in the Ryman League Division One South table and the club aim to appoint his successor shortly, with the closing date for applications being on Sunday, 11 May.

Porter issued the following statement, which has been published in full.

“After much deliberation, it is with deep regret to advise all concerned that as of 6th May 2014, I tendered my resignation as manager of Hythe Town FC.  

“During my five year reign, the club has enjoyed great success. I gained promotion to the Ryman League, won the Kent Senior Cup and become the first Kent League Club to reach the First Round Proper of the FA Cup for 53 years, meeting Hereford United, then in the Football League.

“I never finished lower than 8th in the Ryman South League and reached the play-offs in our second year in the league. I have ensured that continuous progress has been made. 

“My ambition was to build a foundation for many years to come, ultimately gaining promotion to the highest possible level.

“I was under the distinct impression from the board, that I was able to proceed next season on the same budget .But the club endorsed further wage cuts for the 2014/15 season, this left me with no choice but to resign on pure principle alone.

“I informed the players accordingly of my intentions and the revised budget, which ultimately was the same as I had when gaining promotion from the Kent League.   

“Sadly, I don’t believe the board share the same enthusiasm and belief as I do for the football club. They are going backwards rather than moving forward!

“The club has published that there has been a reduction in sponsorship, that has forced the cuts and my hand, but they have had increased backing from local businesses.  

“Words cannot describe the disappointment I feel right now, I would like to thank Hythe Town FC for giving me the opportunity to manage the club, also I’d like to thank the players for all their hard work and effort this season. But mostly my coaching staff, Clive Cook, Mark Lane, Lloyd Blackman and when another position comes available we will move on as one.

“It is such a shame that our working relationship has come to an end. I’ve given my all, as one door closes another door will open, I’m a young ambitious manager ready for a new challenge. 

“I would like to thank the fans for the loyal support they have shown me and the players as my time as manager of the football club.”

Visit Hythe Town’s website: www.hythetownfc.co.uk