Reid walks away from leaders

In a statement released on Thursday night confirming his departure after three seasons at the helm, officials said the former Prescot Cables boss had opted to stand down with immediate effect after learning that his contract at Cantilever Park would not be renewed at the end of the season.

The club said: "Warrington Town have parted company with manager Shaun Reid by mutual consent with immediate effect. The Board of Directors at the club have been discussing plans for next season and beyond as part of its longer term objectives and decided they would not be renewing the manager’s contract at the end of the current season.

"This decision has been discussed with Shaun and he asked to be released from his current contract to ensure he has the appropriate time to find the right opportunity for himself in the future. The club has agreed to this request."

After leading the Wire to the first round of the FA Cup for the first time in their history last season and guiding his side to a 1-0 win over Exeter City in front of millions watching on television, Reid went on to collect Warrington's first silverware in 14 years when his side beat Farsley on penalties in the Integro Doodson League Cup final.

The brother of Everton and England star Peter Reid, the 50-year-old played over 400 games in midfield for Rochdale in two spells and also turned out for Preston North End, Bury and Chester City before scouting for Sunderland and Portsmouth. A UEFA A licence holder, Reid has also enjoyed spells coaching at Swindon Town and Plymouth Argyle.

Chairman Toby Macormac said: “Warrington Town Football Club would like to thank Shaun for all his hard work and success over the last three seasons and we wish him well for the future.”

Warrington say they will not be making any further statement on Reid's departure and instead will concentrate on their promotion with second placed Northwich Victoria enjoying three games in hand.

Assistant managers Stuart Mellish and Lee Smith have stepped up to form a new management duo and will be hoping stretch the club's eight point lead at the top of the table on Saturday when they take charge for the first time for the visit of Ossett Albion. Smith, a former defender with the club, returned to the club in 2012 as Reid's number two while Mellish played alongside Reid at Rochdale.

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