MISSING out on promotion and losing players to rival clubs has prompted Kevin Richards to resign as Mullion's first team boss.

It was announced on Sunday the former Porthleven player and manager had decided to leave his position at Clifden Parc after three seasons at the helm, with Alan Carey taking over as caretaker.

Richards' reign at Mullion culminated last season with the Jolly's Combination League title being secured by the team, losing just three game in the process.

However, despite being crowned as champions, Mullion were denied promotion to the South West Peninsula League West Division as their home ground failed an inspection, with rivals Wendron United going up instead.

This has prompted a number of last season's squad to leave the club including Phil Cattran who has signed for Helston Athletic and Luke Tripconey, a recent acquisition for Falmouth Town.

Following these developments, Richards told the Packet he felt it was the right time to move on.

Richards said: "There are a number of reasons why I have decided to step down, but the biggest one was the fact we didn't get promotion.

"After this setback, we knew it would be difficult to keep a lot of the players we had and that has proven to be the case, with replacing them also proving really, really difficult.

"I think the problem is there are too many clubs locally and not as many good players, so a side like ours has to compete with the likes of Helston Athletic, Porthleven and Wendron for recruits.

"When I came into the job, I said I'll give it three years and see where the side was after that and I just feel it is the right time to go."

Reflecting on his time at Mullion, where he had previously been the reserve team manager, Richards said winning the league was his finest achievement.

He also hopes to return to management after a break from the game, adding he thinks Mullion can still retain their title in 2015/16.

"I was lucky enough to win the Combo League as a player at Porthleven twice, but doing as a manager last season was brilliant," Richards said.

"Despite what has happened, I think Mullion can challenge again next season, but it will have to be without me.

"In the future I will definitely return to management, but I am going on holiday to the USA with my family in a few weeks so I won't make any decisions before then."

Anyone interested in taking over the manager's role at Mullion should call the club's chairman Chris Rosevear on 07860 609018.