BARRY Town United boss Lee Kendall has stepped down as manager with just two weeks to go before the start of the JD Cymru Premier.

Town boss Kendall rocketed Barry back into Wales’ top football division after storming through the JD Cymru South winning the league by 16 points.

Kendall also won two cup competitions last season including the Welsh Blood Service Cup.

In a move that has come as a shock to many, the club say it was mutually agreed that Kendall would step down.

In a statement, the club said: “Lee Kendall has stepped down from his position as manager of Barry Town United AFC and we have mutually agreed to release him from the remainder of this contract.

“We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Lee, who in his nine months at the club guided the club to three trophies and to promotion back to the JD Cymru Premier.

“Thank you Lee for all your hard work, making great memories with us and returning us to the JD Cymru Premier.”

Johnny Barret, director of football operations said: “I’d like to place on record our thanks to Lee and wish him and his family all the very best for the future.

“Naturally as the season begins in two weeks, we’d like to reassure supporters that we’re beginning our search for our new manager immediately and we will provide an update in person on Wednesday evening 7pm at the club, all are welcome to attend.”

In the interim period, head of coaching Damian Flynn and the current first team staff will take charge of the squad.