PAUL Smith has stepped down as manager of Bromsgrove Sporting.

The boss had announced last week that he'd leave the role at the end of the current season following disagreement with the board on how the club should move forwards.

However, Smith has now resigned with immediate effect following a meeting with directors last night.

A club statement said that the boss felt that he did not have the full support of the board and decided to resign as manager immediately.

In a brief statement, club chairman Mike Burke said: “It is regrettable that Paul has decided to resign now but we are grateful for all he has achieved for the Club in his four-and-a-half years here. We wish him well for the future."

Smith took to Twitter to thank fans following the announcement. He said: "A huge thank you to the Sporting FC fans that have supported me during my time at the club.

"This beast of a non-league club has been awoken.

"I hope it continues to grow. Unfortunately I won’t be a part going forward.

"Some tremendous memories and times that I won’t ever forget."

Assistant manager Brendan Kelly will take over first team responsibilities.