Paul Crosbie has resigned as manager of March Town United to spend more time with his family.

The Scot was appointed Hares boss in July 2012, replacing Brett Whaley in the hotseat.

But, having started a new job near Daventry last month, he no longer feels he can commit to the club and its players.

He said: “I’ve started a new job near Daventry which takes me away from home five nights a week.

“I’ve not seen my wife and son all week and disappearing off on Saturday for the football is not fair on them.

“I know I made a three year commitment to the club but circumstances have changed so I know I’ve made the right decision.

“This club deserves someone in place who can give the club and more importantly the players the commitment they need.”

March have endured a difficult season - they are 16th in the Thurlow Nunn First Division.

Assitant manager Paul Blanchflower will be in charge of the side for the rest of the season - starting with Saturday’s trip to Haverhill Borough.

Crosbie has given his backing to Blanchflower, who he says is “more than ready” for the job.

He said: “This is a great opportunity for him and I know he is more than ready for it. “Hopefully the players will stick with the club and start to get the results they deserve.

“It is good that the club is getting behind one of their own instead of looking for an outside candidate.”

Crosbie says he has enjoyed his time in charge of the Hares and feels the club has a bright future.

He said: “It is disappointing to leave because I have really enjoyed my time at the club.

“I know the results weren’t great but off the pitch there are a lot of positives and I think in 12 to 18 months you will see that.”

Crosbie has no intention of managing elsewhere and has agreed to continue helping out the club off the field.

He said: “This is a brilliant club and I do not want to manage elsewhere. I have accepted the board’s offer of helping them out off the field and will still be around to help the club move forward.”

Chairman Phil White says he is sad to see Crosbie and his assistant Bob Warby go.

He said: “It is disappointing because they have given so much to the club, not just on the field but also behind the scenes. I can’t thank them enough for their contribution.

“Paul Blanchflower will be in charge until the end of the season and we will discuss things then.”