Lee Simpson steps down as Berks County boss

Lee Simpson has announced that he will not lead Berks County into the new season. It’s not a full goodbye from Simpson as he plans to “move upstairs” at the Racecourse based club.

A statement on the Berks County website reads: “This season taught me more than the last two combined. While we eventually found our rhythm, it came too late. Drawing our final game after a comeback, only to concede in the 95th minute, was cruel.

“Now, it’s time for a real change. I’ll be stepping away from the first-team managerial role and supporting Steve Kay and the new management team from a different angle – giving me more time with my family and our two boys.

“Thank you to the players who stuck with it and gave everything. I’ve always believed football is about character, but it’s only in tough times that you truly see people’s true colours. This season made it clear who the genuine ones are – both from the past and present. But with the youth we’ve brought through, there’s a bright future ahead – just stick at it. Thanks also to the management team, the Committee, and all the matchday support – you’ve been brilliant.”

Simpson will go down in history as the manager who alongside Ellis Woods took Berks County to Step 5 for the first time. It wasn’t an easy debut season at the level with the club ultimately relegated on goal difference from the Cherry Red Records Combined Counties North.

Additionally Berks County have revealed that two stalwarts of the club Ben Hall and Dan Money have re-signed for the 2025/26 season and will take up management roles. The football club have also recently announced that they will be playing at Ascot United’s Racecourse ground through the 2025/26 and 2026/27 seasons.