Grays go top- and manager Cooper retires!

By Ian Townsend

We didn't see that coming! Grays Athletic boss Jim Cooper steps away, whilst Paul Joynes steps up

Grays Athletic have announced that their manager, Jim Cooper, has decided to retire from football. The announcement came soon after his side defeated Aveley two-one to end the day on top of the North Division table and with a one hundred percent record.

Jim, who has done a fine job at Athletic and previously at Metropolitan Police, told the club website:

'I have decided to retire from football so that I can spend more time with my family.

I am weeks away from my retirement from the police and as such I feel that I need to be able to enjoy this time without the constraints that come with managing a non- league football club.

I have been so very lucky to have managed two absolutely wonderful football clubs. Met Police FC and my current club Grays Ath FC. I have met and made lifelong friends both on and off the pitch and the memories that I have will remain with me forever.'

You can read Jim's full statement here.

Paul Joynes has been appointed the new manager at Athletic with immediate effect.

Have a wonderful retirement Jim, from all at the Isthmian League. You'll be greatly missed.

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Where next?

Yellows sign a Stronge keeper Alfie Strong comes in for AFC Sudbury
Grays and Barking win Landlords v Tenants derbies, Witham win again, whilst the Bees get their buzz back We've three one hundred percenters and a big win for Basildon- it's our North Division round up

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