JOHN ROBSON'S long and winding managerial career took another twist last night when he parted company with Bashley FC.

After a meeting of the Bashley FC executive committee, club and manager decided to go their separate ways - by mutual consent.

A club statement read: "It was jointly understood that Mr Robson's available time for Bashley Football Club was stretched to the limit more than was originally envisaged with the travelling involved from his home to cover all matches and training at Bashley as well as, of course, his own business in the Petersfield area. The club wishes John every success for the future."

When Robson moved over from managing AFC Totton last season, he steered Bash into the Dr Martens League East Division promotion race. But a disappointing season's end saw the New Forest club slip down the table.

In the restructured non-league format for next season, Bashley will play in Isthmian League Division 1. Bashley's executive committee meet again later this week to discuss possible managerial candidates.

Robson moved to Bashley from Testwood Park in September after Barry Blankley's resignation. One of the most respected and passionate coaches in the area, Durham-born Robson played League football in England and Scotland before becoming a successful manager/coach with the likes of Worthing, Alton Town, Winchester City and Totton.

The first signs of a possible split came in March when Robson admitted: "I can't fault the players or my managerial assistant, but I don't feel as if everybody at the club is on my side."