Wealdstone manager steps down after 22 years in charge

Gordon Bartlett has stepped aside after 22 years to take on a new role with the west London club, encompassing youth development and community football.

The decision means Wealdstone are looking for a new manager for the first time since 1995.

"It's time for a change and the buck stops with me," said Bartlett. "Despite my huge disappointment to step aside after 22 years, I believe the club will benefit from a new approach."

Bartlett was appointment as  Wealdstones' manager in 1995 and pre-dates Arsene Wenger's arrival at Arsenal by 16 months.

He led them to three promotions and they finished eighth in National League South last season, their highest placing in the football pyramid since 1988.

But with the ambitious Stones chasing promotion, their current position of 18th led Bartlett and chairman Peter Marsden to agree a fresh start was required.

"Gordon has been pivotal in the club re-establishing itself as a force in the non-league game. He is quite simply a Wealdstone legend," Marsden said.

JC