Former Gillingham manager Steve Lovell has left his role as boss of Herne Bay.

The Isthmian South East club announced the surprise departure on Monday evening with Bay 17th in the table.

Lovell’s side have picked up 24 points from as many games this season and sit seven points above the relegation zone.

Lovell joined Bay in May 2023 on a two-year deal having also previously managed Ramsgate at the same level.

A club statement said: “It’s with great sadness that the club announces that we have parted ways with first team manager Steve Lovell, assistant manager Mark Lovell and physio Dave Hocking.

“Steve came to the club during a tumultuous time and literally had to build a team from scratch. Last season’s eighth-place finish, the excellent win against Hendon and running Maidstone United so close in this year’s FA Cup are just a few of his highlights.

“We would sincerely like to place on record a huge thanks to Steve, Mark and Dave for their contribution both on and off the pitch over the past 18 months and they will be truly missed around the club.

“The club will advertise for a first team manager over the coming days.”

Herne Bay’s next game is at home to Merstham on Saturday.