Steve King, the manager for Gloucester City AFC has quit the club.

The boss's exit from the semi-professional, Hempsted-based club, which dates back to 1883, was announced in a statement from club chairman Patrick Chambers.

Mr Chambers said: 'I am aware that our fans are wanting an update on what is happening manager wise for next season. Steve King has met with myself and Nicky on several occasions and our discussions have been constructive and friendly."

With the financial landscape for the club changing since last September, Mr Chambers added: "there is no doubting what a wonderful job he has done since taking over as manager".

He said: "I have made it clear that I would like to see him stay at the club as I also see him as a top manager and one that I would enjoy working with. We do have to acknowledge the fact that he joined under current Chairman Alex and expectations were set along with budgets.

"Steve is aware of the losses that are currently being covered by the owners and that we have to move to a sustainable model, which will see us go back to a part-time format. This is not a model that suits his personal ambition and circumstances and to date he has expressed his desire to leave the club amicably. This is something that we have to accept and I know our fans will be disappointed in reading this news, but we must respect that decision and thank Steve for the amazing job he has done and wish him well for the future.

"Our search for a new manager begins now and I am sure there will be some really good candidates put themselves forward and I hope to make a decision in plenty of time to get recruitment right for next season."

A new manager will need to buy in to recruiting the best local players possible and in developing young talent, he added. 

"It is hoped that some of the current squad will want to remain with the club, too, and I am sure any new manager will want the opportunity to speak with the current squad and explore all options."

Mr King's direction produced a positive season for Gloucester, which plays in the National League North, English football's sixth tier. 

The Tigers made the playoffs after a dramatic 4-3 victory over Chorley at New Meadow Park on the final fixture, ending in seventh place. A subsequent quarter-final clash at Brackley Town saw the team lose, after extra time in a scoreline that ended 5-3.

Fans have reacted with sadness at Mr King's departure.

Gary Rowe said: "It's a shame that he is leaving as, considering the number of key injuries that his squad had and some of the excellent loanees he acquired, it was a good performance to get into the playoffs."