Birtley Town can announce that the club has parted company with Manager Reece Chapman.

Chapman joined the club in 2021 as part of Paul Beat’s backroom team. Reece was a key part of the managerial team that won promotion from Northern League Division Two and ultimately went on to secure a promotion spot in Division One. Chapman took over the managerial reigns in June 2024.

During his tenue, Chapman secured back to back wins in the FA Cup that resulted in the club’s best ever run in the competition. An excellent win over Blyth secured a home-tie against Dunston UTS.

A club record 612 supporters packed out the Arrowmark on a historic day for the club. Since the opening stages an in-different run of form has seen Birtley fall to 19th position in the league.

Chairman Paul Beat was quick to thank Reece for his amazing contribution to the club.

“This is a decision we’ve not taken lightly, both from a football and a personal perspective I and the club have the utmost respect for Reece and his capabilities. Reece has been with us for a long time, and has been an integral part of our success the last few years.

It just hasn’t worked out, and we all have to take an element of responsibility for that, but it’s not a decision that I regret to give him this opportunity. It was absolutely the right thing to do in the summer, as he had earned the right to be at the front of the dugout.

I, and the whole club I’m sure, wish Reece all the very best in the future, and really hope that he’s not a stranger.”

Everyone at the club would like to Reece wish well and thank him for his contribution to the club in recent years.

A further announcement will be made regarding the managerial position in due course.