St Neots Town FC have been stunned by the shock resignation of manager Gary King this afternoon (Wednesday).

King called time on his 18-month reign at the Cozy Stadium due to “increasing commitments outside of football”.

He leaves the Saints fifth in the Southern League Premier Division table - five points off the summit.

In a statement released by the club, King said: “It is with great regret that I have had to tender my resignation as first-team manager of this wonderful club.

“Managing the best club at this level for the last 18 months has been a great experience.

“However, with ever-increasing commitments outside of football, I find it impossible to give the club the commitment it requires each and every day.

“Leaving the club in its highest league position in its 135-year history gives me great satisfaction.”

King’s decision to stand down was greeted with disappointment by St Neots chairman Mike Kearns.

He said: “I am truly sorry that Gary has had to make this decision as we have been a great team and become very close friends.

“But I understand that family and business must always come first in life.”