Dan Spinks leaves Romford and joins Saffron Walden Town

A turbulent week for the FA Vase holders saw them first have to leave their home at Rookery Hill in a rush and return to a groundshare with Barking.

And now their manager has opted to leave, quickly heading north to Saffron Walden Town to replace the outgoing Jason Maher.

And if that wasn't enough, Spinks has wasted little time in recruiting Wembley scorer Hassan Nalbent, the forward leaving Romford at the same time as the boss, as well as Tilbury striker Roman Campbell.

Hassan Nalbant celebrates his second goal at Wembley. Picture: NIGEL FRENCH/PA (Image: Nigel French/PA)

On departing the Boro, Spinks said in a statement: "My decision to step down as manager has been the hardest thing I have had to decide upon.

"Not only was I manager of this football club, I become a fan and it will always hold a special place in my heart.

"I sourced a ground that became a temporary home, encouraged by the fact that we wanted it to be a family club that welcomed everyone.

"Although we achieved this in the short term, after some discussions we realised this wasn’t possible to sustain long term.

"To try and restart the whole process after 18 months of blood, sweat, and tears has ultimately become a step too far for me, and I believe someone with a fresh start and an abundance of energy will go on to achieve our ultimate goal of getting this fantastic club back to where they belong.

"Whatever happens moving forward, Romford will hold a special place in my heart. To lead the team out at Wembley in a national competition, and to lift the trophy at the end of it, was the proudest moment in my career.

"As always, up the Boro."

Chairman Steve Gardener added his own praise to the departing boss.

He said: "It will be no surprise to learn how difficult this has been, nor for any of us to understand the toll a season such as the one we have encountered can take on the manager, given Dan was instrumental in the move to Rookery Hill, and the time and resources this has taken.

"Both Colin Ewenson and I have spoken to Dan numerous times over the last couple of days. I am not sure he fully understands the joy and success he brought the club in such a short while.

"I am sure supporters will want to add their own thanks and gratitude to the players, coaching staff, but especially Dan for an incredible memory, most of us never dreamed of."

Kris Newby is the new manager of Romford. Picture: PETER SHORT (Image: Peter Short)

Romford have moved quickly to replace Spinks, the position of manager going to Kris Newby who, according to the chairman, "has personified what Romford FC is, not only on the pitch but off it as well".

Newby was also given the seal of approval by his predecessor, Spinks saying he "couldn’t think of a better man to take the club forward".