Paul Murray’s short spell as manager of Southern Counties East League side Deal Town is over.

Murray, who took over in January, has been appointed coach of Ramsgate after telling the Deal board on Sunday he’d received an offer that he could not refuse.

Deal chairman Derek Hares admitted Murray’s departure had come as a ‘bit’ of a shock, but took time to praise his former manager.

He said: “We would like to thank Paul for all his efforts during his short time at the club and wish him all the best for the future.

“I don’t blame him for taking up the offer - you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do.

“We will survive and move on.”

Hares said the hunt for Murray’s replacement has started and applications will close on June 6.

It won’t be a role for the faint hearted.

Hares said: “While the club is in a stable position, due to the hard work and commitment of the board of Directors and our loyal band of volunteers, we are not in a position to have a large player bucket like many clubs, so it will be a difficult job for the new manager.

“We believe that the club has a bright future, but it will not be easy to get where we need to be.”