CALLUM Brooks has announced he has stepped down as manager of Christchurch FC.

The former Hamworthy United and Dorchester manager helped Priory to avoid the drop after arriving at Hurn Bridge in November of last year.

After retaining the position in the division next season, Brooks had intended to build on survival, but instead tendered his resignation after it became apparent he would be unable to do.

Christchurch had previously rejected the opportunity to take up promotion to the Southern League after the two curtailed season, leaving to the departure of long-serving manager Ollie Cherrett over the summer.

Cherrett's new club Shaftesbury finished third, whilst Christchurch finished third from bottom.

Announcing his departure on social media, Brooks stated: "On November 7 last year, I back-tracked on a promised I had made to myself, and re-entered management before I had planned.

"I have two gorgeous young boys, a thriving business, and at the time, was full-time in education.

"The reason? I wanted to help what I have always believed to be a fantastic football club.

"In honesty, the club was dead with regards to staying in the Wessex Premier, and the only reason not buried was due to Graham Kemp.

"When I stepped in there was only one remit - survival. If we had not gone on an unbeaten run, taking points off a number of top teams, that would not have been achieved.

"In summary we achieved mid-table form from a dead and buried group - when I say we - my staff and the players have done it all.

"They are amazing. I loved the management team, and although it was far from the best group I've managed talent-wise, I so enjoyed this group of players, demonstrated in the togetherness when we celebrated staying up. Those that were there will know.

"I secured a training ground, got the group fit, and although hard to believe, this was 10 times harder then when I helped Dorchester stay up with 10 games remaining.

"The players were immense with sticking to dogged game plans to maintain league status. Although you have groans of play more football against teams with five times your resources, I would rather stay safe and rebuild.

"After all, that's what you're asked to do.

"Following meetings, that rebuild will not be happening. From what I have seen, and what I have been advised will happen, next season there is no way I can better this year. More to the point, it's not deserving of taking up valuable time with my children.

"I wish Christchurch FC the very best and all the wonderful people that are involved. There are some special people who showed me nothing but support, and I hope the off-field operation can be knitted together, and revenue gained in order to improve the club as they see fit.

"I am proud of achievement, and wish you and the next manager total success.

"This job inspired me to cut down my work load and do what I love, it will now have to be elsewhere.

"On a personal level, from feeling I was done, this job has given me my appetite back and I look forward to embracing my next opportunity, if and when it comes.

"I have tonight provided the Chairman, who I thank wholeheartedly for the opportunity, my resignation.

"Best of wishes to all at Christchurch FC. Thanks for the opportunity, you have reignited my passion."