Hadleigh Town Youth FC's coach of eight years has to decided to call it a day.

Jon Wagstaff has been running the Southend and District Junior League team since their formation at Under 9s level right up to this year's Under 16s.

Wagstaff formed the team to give his son Oliver and his friends a safe, friendly environment in which to play football.

"I decided to stick my hand up in the air and volunteer," said Wagstaff.

"I wanted to give something back to the community and put something back in the game as I played myself for years."

Wagstaff points to one of the main highlights of his coaching reign being the team's promotion from Division B to A three years ago at under-13 level.

He admits: "One thing I won't miss is the early Sunday morning kick-offs."

Wagstaff accepts that Hadleigh Town have been fortunate to be able to used to the fairly priced pitches at King John School, Thundersley.

He wishes to thank all the boys who have played for Hadleigh during his time there, especially Adam Soilleux and his own son.

He also paid tribute to the parents, notably Cliff Powell, Karl Wilson and Mark Hayes, who have helped officiate, plus sponsors Aqua Environmental Ltd.