Ross McNeilly has stepped down as Whitehawk boss after a tough start to the season.

McNeilly said the decision was not totally down to Hawks’ disappointing current placing of 20th in the Isthmian League premier division.

His assistant David Altendorff takes charge, starting with Tuesday night’s trip to bottom side Cray Wanderers.

In a statement, McNeilly said: “I have made the decision to resign both for me and in the best interests of the club. I am someone who has always worked full-time in football, and that’s where my skills and interests lie.

“I have additional personal reasons that have also made the decision somewhat unavoidable. I want to thank the fans for welcoming me to the club and their continued support. I am forever grateful.

“To my staff and players, what a great group of people, I can assure the fans that your team is in good hands. I have loved my time at the club and can’t wait to see them be successful this season.”

Altendorff said: “I have immense faith in the players’ ability to climb out of the relegation zone, although it won’t be an overnight fix.

“While I plan to bring in just a few new additions to strengthen us, I assure everyone at the club that there won’t be wholesale changes.”