NORTHWICH Victoria are looking for a new manager, following the resignation of manager Matt Barnes and his assistant Chris Broad.

Chairman Ian Egerton said in a statement: "It is with regret and sadness that Northwich Victoria have today accepted the resignation of first team Manager Matt Barnes.

"Matt joined the club last season as assistant manager to Steve Pickup and he soon built up many friends within the club with his love and enthusiasm for the game, and for the club.

"Matt was the club's obvious choice to take over the reins after Steve Pickup left earlier this year and an impressive run of seven wins in nine matches prompted the club to offer the position on a permanent basis, and along with Chris Broad, Matt built the foundation for the season ahead.

"It's been a tough start to the season. Matt has left the club in a mid-table position and still within reach of the play-offs but has called time at the club on the back of yesterday's frustrating 3-1 defeat at Romulus in the Midland League and now the search for a new manager will take place.

"As the chairman, I have built up a great relationship with Matt and his wonderful family and I will certainly miss having them around the club, and I can only thank Matt for all his help, support and contribution to our football club, and everyone at Northwich Victoria wishes Matt and his family all the very best in the future and we hope our paths cross again in the future.

"As a result of Matt's resignation, his assistant Chris Broad has also decided to leave the club and Chris, like Matt, has been fantastic for the club and we also wish Chris and his family all the best for the future and support whilst in his role."