Buckie Thistle manager Graeme Stewart has left the club after 10 years in charge – just days after the Highland League side were denied a place in the promotion play-offs.
The 42-year-old, who joined Buckie 10 years ago, said he was making the “very difficult” decision to leave the club to spend more time with his family.
Stewart led Thistle to their first title in seven years this season – and a Scottish Cup fourth-round tie against Celtic in January.
“I have given 100% for the last 10 years and enjoyed every minute, but I have a young family, two beautiful girls, a demanding job and I feel like now I need time to recharge,” he said.
“We should have won more but we did our best and left the club as the best team in the Highland League and in a good position to build on that success.
“I will be forever grateful to be Buckie Thistle’s manager and will always be a fan.”
Buckie Thistle were denied the chance to face East Kilbride in the promotion play-offs despite winning the Highland League after failing to secure the SFA’s bronze club licence.
The club paid tribute to Stewart’s achievements and said it would consider his options following his departure.
