FORMER Ramsbottom United boss Mike Kelly today explains the reasons for giving up the Riverside hotseat.

Kelly called it a day after last weekend's 0-0 draw at Alsager but admits to having decided to relinquish the reins a couple of weeks ago.

The Rams have been struggling near the bottom of the North West Counties League Division One table since the beginning of the new campaign and Kelly has taken full responsibility for their slow start.

His decision comes hard on the heels of the resignation of secretary John Maher and commercial manager Graham Dobson who cited differences with chairman Harry Williams for their leaving.

However Kelly is quick to point out that his decision to quit is purely a football matter and nothing whatsoever to do with the Maher and Dobson situation.

"I realise it isn't the best timing in the world but I'm sure it is for the good of the club," he said.

"The fact is Ramsbottom United deserves better than I can offer. It is a 24/7 job and I don't feel I can give it the time that is needed.

"Also, whenever I played at semi-professional level I never used to take bad results through the front door but I've found that recently that hasn't been the case."

Rams chairman Williams asked Kelly to reconsider but once he realised the manager's mind was made up fully understood his decision.

Experience midfielder Andy Grimshaw has been given the job of taking the club forward and he will be assisted by another well-known face on the local non-league scene Jimmy Clarke.

"Harry has backed me 100 per cent all the way through and I asked him if I could have a say in who would be my successor. That's when I suggested Andy," added Kelly.

"The club has come on in leaps and bounds since joining the NWCL and they deserve to continue to progress.

"They have a great set-up and managing the club has been a great experience for me. I've thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Riverside but I'm sure it's the right decision all round."

Kelly is to have a complete break from the game in the immediate future but didn't rule out staying connected to the club.