KARL Diment has stepped down as Lyme Regis manager for family reasons after one season in charge at Davey Fort.

His partner is due to give birth tomorrow and Diment feels he would not be able to fully commit to a second term in the Seasiders’ hot seat.

Lyme finished runners-up in the Perry Street League Premier Division under Diment last season.

He also guided them to the Dorset Intermediate Cup with a 2-1 victory over Gillingham Town A and took the team to the finals of the Coronation Cup and Challenge Cup.

“The biggest reason for my decision to step down is that I’ve got a baby due on Friday,” he said.

“Because of that I wouldn’t be able to commit to the team 100 per cent next season and, as a manager, I feel that’s something you need to do.

“I spoke to the chairman and secretary about it and they understood my position and I would like to thank them, the players and all the staff at the club.

“In my opinion, they are probably the best club in the Perry Street League and I would like to wish them all the best for next season.”

Diment said he would still like to play a few games next season but for a club closer to home – he faced a 50-mile round trip to Davey Fort for training and matches.

Meanwhile, Darren Poole and Mark Hodder have been named as joint replacements for Chris Simpson, who stood down as the Seasiders’ third-team boss.