Ellis Woods departs Berks County

Long-serving joint Berks County manager Ellis Woods has departed the Racecourse Ground, the club has confirmed.

A social media statement from the Combined Counties League Premier Division North side said: “In order to focus on work and family commitments, Ellis Woods has decided to take a break from football management. The club fully support his decision but will miss his involvement after doing such a brilliant job after joining Lee Simpson almost seven years ago. It goes without saying that we hope this isn’t the end for Ellie and Libby [at the club] and that we will see them and their young family at games soon.”

Woods and his co-manager Lee Simpson have guided the club from Step 7 to Step 5 during their tenure. He previously managed Binfield reserves and Eversley & California.

The club lost a play-off final last season but were subsequently promoted as one of the best performing sides at Step 6 in the country.

Simpson wrote: “You’ll always be part of the family here. While I’m sad to see you go, I know you’ve made the right decision for yourself and more importantly your family.”

The Swords have had a tough introduction to Step 5 football, they are 19th of 20 in the table but have seen results improve and scores come down, though they are without a point in four games.

A trip to North Greenford United is next up on Saturday.