Brian Atkinson leaves Newton Aycliffe after relegation to Northern League | OneFootball

Brian Atkinson has left his role as Newton Aycliffe manager, weeks after the club were relegated back to the Ebac Northern League.

The club said in a statement that chairman Alan Oliver thanked Atkinson for his work, said the Northern League title would live long in the memory, respected his decision to move on, and expressed his gratitude.

After assistant spells at Darlington, Spennymoor Town and Aycliffe, Atkinson took charge in 2021 and guided the team to fourth in the Northern League’s top flight.

The 2022/23 campaign brought a surprise title win and promotion to the Northern Premier League, taking Aycliffe to their highest ever level.

They adjusted impressively, finishing sixth and seventh over the next two seasons while missing the play-offs. This season proved far tougher after key departures, and just nine wins in 42 league games saw Aycliffe relegated alongside Bishop Auckland and Blyth Town. A new manager will lead the club as they prepare for life back in the Northern League.

Source: Sunderland Echo