EVESHAM United manager Carl Abbott has left the Jubilee Stadium club "by mutual agreement".

Former Quorn boss Abbott took over from the long-serving Paul Collicutt in the summer and guided the Robins to ninth in BetVictor Southern League Division One South after a complete squad rebuild.

Evesham, a regular play-off contender under Collicutt, are six points off the top five after going five games unbeaten but the club's board felt it was time for a change.

Former assistant manager and current head of youth football Neil Hunt, who has previously been in charge at Malvern Town, has agreed to be caretaker boss and will lead the Robins into Saturday's league game at leaders Thatcham Town (3pm).

Evesham top scorer Lee Chilton revealed he had left the club at the weekend to "spend more time with family".

A United statement said: "We would like to go on record that Carl Abbott has left the club by mutual agreement.

"We thank him and his team for all they have done and the way they have conducted themselves throughout and wish them all the best for the future wherever it may take them.

"The club will make no further comment at this time.

"Neil Hunt will assume first-team duties until such time that a new manager is appointed.

"Applications are invited for the position. Apply by email to the chairman at eveshamunitedsecretary@hotmail.com."

Abbott said on Twitter: "I'm disappointed to have ended my time (at Evesham). I very much enjoyed it, a great set of lads we had assembled and the messages I’ve received strengthens the respect I have for them all further. Top boys.

"A complete new side with reduced resources was always going to take a little time. Five unbeaten, six points from play-offs with 30 left to play for.

"My assessment of the situation was a little different to the club and perhaps it is a sensible time to part ways if we have so little common ground in where we want to go with what we have and how quickly we should get there.

"Thanks to Jim Cockerton and Dave Wright, supporters and our lads. Best of luck to you all.

"It's time for a break. First Saturday out of the madhouse in 10 seasons coming up. I'm anxious about it but it's an opportunity to reset and I will be better next time."