Southern Counties East side Lordswood have announced the departure of their manager.

In a message on social media, club chairman Ray Broad said he was shocked to hear of the resignation of manager Matt Barman.

His departure comes off the back of some tremendous recent results, including a surprise win over SCEFL big-boys Faversham Town in the Kent Senior Trophy last weekend, a result that came just days on from a goalless draw against the same team in their Premier Division fixture.

On Tuesday night Lordswood drew 0-0 with Bearsted and are playing at home to Barman’s old club Whitstable this Saturday.

A message on X, from the chairman, said: “As a club we are sad and shocked to hear that Matt Barman has handed in his resignation as first-team manager.

“We would like to thank Matt for his services to Lordswood FC and we wish him all the best in the future.”

Under Barman, Lordswood have impressed with a young team, preferring to focus on developing youth.

Barman, a former youth coach at Whitstable and manager of Milton, has been approached to comment. He leaves Lords sitting 11th in the SCEFL Premier Division table, eight points off the play-off places.

Former Lordswood boss Richard Styles was among those to respond to the news, saying: “Very sad news, done an amazing job and got a great group together battling every game for the club.

“Got a great buzz back at and around the club also. Will be a big loss and wish Matt nothing but the best for the future.”