KEVIN Turner has stood down as Lyme Regis manager with immediate effect, the Bridport & Lyme Regis News has learned.

Turner vacated the role after Saturday’s 3-0 defeat to Crediton United Seconds, citing a lack of enjoyment and poor results.

He informed chairman Gerard Hitchcock of his decision in the aftermath of that loss having won only three of his 14 games in charge, drawing three and losing eight.

It is understood his assistant Chris Higgs is keen to stay in his position when a new boss is appointed.

READ MORE: Kevin Turner takes Lyme Regis manager job

Turner, a former Lyme Regis, Axminster and Ilminster forward, lasted nearly six months in the role.

He stepped up to the plate after the short stay of previous boss Micky Hunt and was originally scheduled to remain in post for the entire 2023/24 season, or until a new manager could be found.

But Turner confessed he could not carry on with the job with Lyme languishing in 12th of the 14 teams in the Devon & Exeter League Premier Division.

He said: “It was very difficult. It’s just a well-run club and the atmosphere after the games is really good.

“I guess with my son (Ben) playing and the guys that had come over from Axminster, I felt like I have an obligation. I didn’t want to see it, not fold, but I wanted to keep it together.

“I was really enthusiastic to start with but after a few games I think it was a bigger project than I thought it was going to be.

“Certainly from my point of view, the fact we haven’t got an out-and-out striker is massive.

“In any standard of football, that’s ultimately what wins you games. I tried the youngsters and they weren’t quite ready.

“We’ve had some key injuries and when you’re down there everything seems to go against you.

“It was a hard decision. I’ve always had good sides and we’ve always done quite well. I hate losing, so I feel like a bit of a failure.

“Gerard said: ‘You can only work with what you’ve got’ and I feel they’re not quite good enough for the Premier top half. They are where they are because of the mistakes and inconsistencies that have been with us.

“We’ve had three or four good performances but otherwise it’s been so inconsistent, which is really frustrating.

“I feel a lot for Lyme Regis. The people, I find them amazing. It’s just a well-run club.”

Lyme Regis FC has been contacted for comment, while the Seasiders are due to play second-placed Kentisbeare away on Saturday (2.15pm).