EVESHAM United chairman Jim Cockerton says that he wants to have a new manager in place before next Sunday’s Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division match with Hitchin Town.

The Robins are searching for a new man at the helm after boss Paul West resigned at the weekend following the 3-1 home loss to Barwell which left them second-from-bottom in the table.

The former Wigan Athletic defender, who had another year to run on his contract, said it had been ‘an honour and a privilege’ to manage the club he joined 15 years ago as a player.

Cockerton praised West’s efforts over the past five years. He said: “Paul brought us success we haven’t seen before.

“Whoever we appoint they will have a tough act to follow, but with the move to the new ground in the offing I would like to think that we would have quite a few interested.”

Cockerton said they have received several applications for the vacancy already and are hoping to begin the interview process on Monday.

“I would like to think that we would have a new man in ahead of next weekend’s game,” Cockerton said.

“Obviously, it is very sad to see Paul go, he’s been a great ambassador for the club.”

West’s brother, Leon steps up from assistant manager to caretaker boss with coach Michael Brennan his number two for Saturday’s trip to Cambridge City (3pm) and Tuesday night’s visit to Stourport Swifts in the Worcestershire FA Senior Cup (7.45pm).

The 41-year-old departed West said: “I would like to thank the chairman, the board, my staff, the players and the supporters — they have been fantastic during my time here.

“It is sad to be leaving a club that I have been at for the last 15 years, but I feel I have taken them as far as I can.

“There is a good bunch of players at the club and I’m sure that they will get themselves out of trouble.”

Anyone wishing to apply for the vacant Evesham manager’s job should contact Cockerton on 01386-41428 or email lcockerton@btinternet.com A supporters coach is being run to Cambridge City, leaving Evesham High Street at 10.30am. For more information contact Mike Peplow on 07889-011539.