Penryn Athletic Manager Harry Pope has announced he is stepping down from his role with immediate effect.

Pope, who in November celebrated his 100th game in charge of Penryn, leaves his side tenth in the league table after most recently defeating Penzance 3-2 with a last gasp winner. Not only did Pope manage the first team but he helped out with training for the Penryn Ladies team who play in the Cornwall Women's Football League on Sundays.

In a statement on Facebook the departing manager said: "After a tough weekend, I'm gutted to say I have decided to step down as manager of Penryn Athletic. 
"This was by far the hardest decision I've ever had to make, but one I needed to make for me.

"I can't thank the committee at Penryn enough for giving me the opportunity to manage their great club, and I'm sorry it didn't work out the way we wanted it to. I've met some amazing people and made some memories that will stay with me forever, and ill miss you all!

Pope had guided Penryn to promotion last season following the Covid hampered season, he also capped of the campaign by winning the St Piran League Cup in May 2021.

"I'm overwhelmed by all the messages I've received over the weekend, I appreciate every single one!" The statement continued. "I will reply to you if I haven't already, I'm just struggling a bit at the moment, please forgive me!!

"I'd like to thank the ladies for welcoming me in, I really enjoyed helping out even though it was only for a short time.

"And last but not least, the boys. Thank you for all your support over the years and for putting up with my gob. I'll miss you all more than you can imagine! Buzzing to hear about the last-minute winner yesterday, scenes! Keep up the good work, and thanks for everything!

Speaking to the Packet Pope explained how he is taking some time away from the game following his departure, he said: "I wish my successor the club and all the boys the very best for the future, I am going to miss working with them every day. 

"I need a good little bit of a break from the game, I have no immediate plans to go anywhere a lot of people have been messaging asking where I am going. There have been no plans, I am looking forward to a break getting my head screwed back on but for now, I just needed to step away and take a bit of me-time really."

It is Penryn's first season back in the South West Peninsula League. The search for a new manager has now begun ahead of Penryn's next match against Dobwalls on Saturday, January 30.