LONG-serving Halesowen Town general manager Colin Brookes has decided to call it a day at the end of the season despite the best efforts of club officials to keep him.

Brookes, who joined the club back in 1994 as assistant to manager Stuart Hall, tendered his resignation following Tuesday evening’s 3-0 defeat at Tiverton Town.

The 67-year-old stalwart made the difficult decision to walk away from a role he has loved after admitting it was beginning to take a toll on him and his family.

He said: “The last 12 months have been very time consuming, which I was only too willing do but it has had an effect on me and my family.

“After plenty of soul searching over the last few months, I thought the professional and dignified thing to do was to let the club know I had come to this decision, so they can make plans without me for next season.

“I do this with a heavy heart but I’ve been involved in football for more than 52 years and it’s about time I took a break and recharged my batteries and spent more time with my wife and two daughters.

“I will always have Halesowen in my heart and I just hope and pray the club can get through this difficult period.”

Brookes, who during his spell at The Grove filled in as caretaker manager on four occasions, has become a popular figure in the dressing room, board room and on the terraces, admitted he has been blown away with the goodwill messages he had received.

He added: “I must admit I have been humbled and overwhelmed by the response I’ve had from people since I made my announcement.

“It really sums up how great a club Halesowen is.

“During my time at The Grove we’ve had some highs and lows but what sticks out more than anything is the fantastic people I’ve worked with and of course the brilliant fans, who in many cases I now class as friends.”

Club officials admitted they had tried their utmost to keep Brookes on board for next season.

Chief executive, Guy Simpson, said: “It is with great regret that Colin Brookes has decided to step down with effect from the end of the season from his role as general manager.

“In my brief time here, he and I have worked closely together and I have very much enjoyed it.

“Morell and I would wish him the very best in the future.

“I would stress that this is Colin’s decision as he very much formed a part of what Morell and I are working towards for next season.

“I hope you can all get down and give him a good send off from the next two home games.”

Hanging up his boots: Colin Brookes has decided to leave his role at the end-of-the-season.