Chairman Ron Martin has today issued the following statement:

The Club's current League position is very concerning and not in my view reflective of the quality of the Squad. Many people say, and I agree, that 'we are too good to go down …' The same was said when we were in the Championship. However, when a club 'hits' the relegation zone there is a danger the mindset of players and management changes and we all get sucked into a downward spiral.

Relegation for the Club and its supporters would be fatal and as Chairman I am never going to let matters with your Club drift and risk that calamity. Whilst we have had disruptions this Season there are so so many positive things happening (some in the background) that it's vital to ensure we maintain an UPWARD SPIRAL on the pitch.

It is therefore urgent that change is evident. Steve Tilson has attributes I wish to preserve but at this time we need to bring new energy, a fresh outlook, momentum and most importantly a POSITIVE APPROACH to the on field activities. Therefore this morning Paul Brush has been relieved of his management responsibilities. The position has been discussed fully with Steve Tilson who (in his own time) will need to find a permanent replacement or may opt for someone to adopt an interim role until the right individual can be identified.

I wish to close this statement by saying this decision has been made to secure the best interests of the Club and personally wish to thank Paul Brush for his contribution over the years.

Paul's contract does not expire until the summer of next year and I have promised him that as a result of this necessary step he will not be financially hardshipped in any way.