Bicester Town after looking for a new manager after Tim Fowler decided to call it a day after four years at the helm.

Fowler, 49, took over in February 2005 and led them to promotion to the FTL Futbol Hellenic League Premier Division.

This season they were relegated, but Fowler, who had spells as manager at Brackley Town, Chipping Norton and Middle Barton, said his decision had nothing to do with that.

“I just need a break from football,” said Fowler, who revealed he rejected an approach from Hook Norton to become their boss.

“There’s nothing sinister, it’s as simple as that. I have been in management for 14 years and wanted to have a rest from it.

“I have been at Bicester for four years. In the first year we won promotion to the Premier Division and we had a good year.

“Things have not developed as I hoped they would and we have lost a lot of players.

“Much of it is down to the expenses we can pay, so it’s a tough game.

“Last year was the toughest I have experienced as a manager.”

Fowler, who also played for Banbury United, added: “I did go for the Banbury job and would have loved to have managed at that level again.

“But they went for Billy Jeffrey, and good luck to them.

“It’s time for a break – I need to freshen myself up a bit.”

Bicester secretary Nick Harverson, who said they hope to appoint a successor by the end of June, added: “Tim has been first-rate at Bicester, his loyalty, passion for the game and knowledge cannot be faulted and I am sorry to see him go.”

Those interested in becoming manager should email their applications to Nick Harverson at nick.h.btcfc@btinternet.com