NEW Milton Town boss Darren Curtis has confirmed he will be stepping down at the end of the season - even if Bashley’s proposed move to Fawcett’s Field does not happen.

Curtis, who took on his first managerial position with the Linnets at the start of the season, plans to take a year out of football to focus on business commitments.

Town’s player-manager has endured a tough campaign at the foot of the Wessex Premier and has struggled to raise a side since news emerged of Bash’s plan to move into Linnets’ home over the summer.

New Milton, who travel to Fareham Town tonight (7.45pm), have provisionally resigned from the Wessex League but would be reinstated should the unification fail to materialise.

And while Curtis admits it has been a baptism of fire, he insists the decision to step down is nothing to do with the uncertainty at the club.

Curtis told the Daily Echo: “I made up my mind at the turn of the year that I would need to step down. It was a close call whether I would see out the season because my coaching business is very busy but I was determined not to let anyone down.

“Since January, it has been a really tough experience and the uncertainty isn’t helping. Players get the opportunity to work and earn money on a Saturday, knowing there is probably no longevity at the club.

“We are just trying to fulfil fixtures and stick it out until the end of the season and we are very thankful to the lads who do turn out.”

Meanwhile, Christchurch will tonight aim to consolidate their position in Wessex Premier when they host title hopefuls Alresford Town at Hurn Bridge (7.45pm).

Currently third, their finishing position last season, Priory are level on 68 points with fourth-placed Moneyfields but have three games in hand on the Portsmouth-based outfit.

Also in Wessex Premier, Bournemouth Poppies host Bemerton Heath Harlequins, while Verwood Town travel to Downton (both 7.45pm).