LONG-serving football secretary Richie Phippard is set to follow manager Darren Curtis out of the door at Wessex Premier strugglers New Milton.

Phippard, who joined the club during its days as Lymington & New Milton, has told chairman John Breaker he will be stepping down at the end of the season.

The Linnets have resigned from the Wessex League due to their planned amalgamation with Bashley, although would be reinstated should it not go ahead.

Phippard, whose wife Julie passed away earlier this month, revealed the merger had a “major bearing” on his decision to quit.

He told the Daily Echo: “I have informed club chairman John Breaker of my final decision to stand down as football secretary as soon as the playing season is finished.

“Obviously, the proposed merger with Bashley has had a major bearing on my decision as it was something I was totally against.

“But more recently, the sad passing of my dear wife Julie means my life has changed completely and, at present, I am not sure what the future will bring.

“I have received other offers from three or four clubs already, but I will not be making a decision on my future involvement with any new club until I feel the time is right for me.”

Boss Curtis, who is in his first managerial position with the Fawcett’s Field side, plans to take a year away from non-league football.